What is the meaning of the word "ugly duckling"?

Definitions:

  1. Refers to someone or something that starts out looking unattractive or unpromising but later transforms into something beautiful and successful. copy to clipboard NOUN
    • He was the ugly duckling of the sports team, often overlooked, but he worked hard and became one of their star players. copy to clipboard
  2. Represents personal growth, self-acceptance, and the discovery of inner beauty or talent. copy to clipboard NOUN
    • She was considered the ugly duckling of her class, but she blossomed into a confident and accomplished individual. copy to clipboard
  3. Used to describe people, projects, or situations that initially seem unimpressive but eventually become admirable or successful. copy to clipboard NOUN
    • The startup was an ugly duckling in its early days, struggling to gain traction, but it eventually became a leading company in the tech industry. copy to clipboard

Synonyms: