needless

adjective

need·​less ˈnēd-ləs 

: not needed : unnecessary

needless waste

needlessly adverb

needlessness noun

see also:

needless to say

Synonyms of needless

• unnecessary

Examples of needless in a Sentence

needless expenditures that pushed the construction project way over budget

Recent Examples on the Web

The voters repudiated the president in every way, growing tired of his lies, corrupt administration, unqualified Cabinet members, tariffs, needless wars, ongoing inflation, and undignified and boorish behavior. — Chicago Tribune, 6 Nov. 2026

All broadcast pairings eventually end, but for Troy Aikman and Joe Buck to finish like this is both needless, and dirty. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Oct. 2026

Opponents of the measure argue Amendment 84 adds needless obstacles to voting without improving election security, the state’s Blue Book voter guide said. — Elizabeth Hernandez, Denver Post, 3 Oct. 2026

Their impressiveness came from their straightforwardness, their precision and generosity of flavor, without needless curlicues or misguided deconstruction. — Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 27 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing needless

• needless to say

Rhymes for needless

• heedless
• seedless

Kids Definition

needless

adjective

need·​less ˈnēd-ləs 

: unnecessary

needlessly adverb