one-sided

adjective

one-sid·​ed ˈwən-ˈsī-dəd How to pronounce one-sided (audio)
Synonyms of one-sidednext
1
a(1)
: having one side prominent : lopsided
(2)
: having or occurring on one side only
b
: limited to one side : partial
a one-sided interpretation
2
: unilateral
a one-sided decision
one-sidedly adverb
one-sidedness noun

Examples of one-sided in a Sentence

my neighbor's account of how the feud got started was somewhat one-sided
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sean Brady reminded everyone he was once viewed as a future welterweight problem with a one-sided grappling clinic on Joaquin Buckley, winning 30-25 on two cards. Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 10 May 2026 Even in one of the most politically one-sided cities in America, councilors understood this decision was indefensible. Anne Brensley, Boston Herald, 9 May 2026 Define what works for you, communicate it clearly, and build something that feels balanced instead of reactive or one-sided. Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 May 2026 Now, however, the contest looks less one-sided. ABC News, 6 May 2026 Unhappy with just one-sided success, however, Ohtani shook up his routine with early on-field batting practice Monday. Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 5 May 2026 However, the comparison in terms of environmental impact is not entirely one-sided. David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 28 Apr. 2026 The one-sided showing was evident in the first period, when the Ducks put a 20-shot blitz on Ingram. Eric Stephens, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026 The Battle of Pennsylvania Rages On The Flyers hold a commanding 3-0 series lead, and the Battle of Pennsylvania has been decidedly one-sided. Ryan Brennan april 23, Kansas City Star, 23 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1793, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Time Traveler
The first known use of one-sided was circa 1793

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“One-sided.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/one-sided. Accessed 15 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

one-sided

adjective
one-sid·​ed
ˈwən-ˈsīd-əd
1
a
: having one side more developed
b
: having or happening on one side only
2
: favoring one side : partial
a one-sided view of the case
one-sidedly adverb
one-sidedness noun

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