The show wouldn't have been nearly as good if everyone was a cartoon character with unattractive aspects. Meadows was absolutely perfect because she was able to be her own person next to Ralph and act as someone women could identify with.
I've been watching Dean Martin Roasts lately, and Audrey Meadows was a frequent roaster on the show. Her delevery and timing is always spot on. She could have easily been a stand up comedian. I guess the best straight men are funny themselves.