Look a fright Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Emphasis on Messiness The phrase suggests a strong degree of untidiness, more than just casual dishevelment. After the windstorm, her hair and clothes looked a fright. Pro Tip 2/3Colloquial Use It's informal and best suited for casual conversations, not for formal writing or speeches. You can't go out like that; you look a fright! Pro Tip 3/3Expression of Surprise Often used to express surprise at someone's unusually unkempt appearance. Wow, you look a fright! Did you get any sleep?