unused

adjective

un·​used ˌən-ˈyüzd 

in the phrase "unused to" usually -ˈyüs(t)

1

: not habituated : unaccustomed

unused to crowds

2

: not used: such as

a

: fresh, new

set an unused canvas on the easel

b

: not put to use : idle

unused land

c

: not consumed : accrued

unused sick leave

Synonyms of unused

• unadjusted
• unadapted
• unaccustomed

Examples of unused in a Sentence

The library has been unused for 10 years.

I have four days of unused vacation time left.

Recent Examples on the Web

If unused, those embryos can be frozen, discarded, donated to research or donated to another fertility patient. — Risa Cromer, The Conversation, 17 July 2026

She will also be compensated for 20 unused vacation days and 15 personal leave days. — Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 July 2026

Music playback should start faster, and Apple will proactively disable unused features to extend battery life. — Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 15 July 2026

Jurado said the temporary art park would make good use of land that has been fenced off and unused, but stressed that her office will ensure a transparent process for the long-term use of the lot. — Los Angeles Times, 13 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing unused

• unused to

Rhymes for unused

• disabused
• overused
• underused
• unexcused
• abused
• accused
• amused
• bemused
• confused
• contused
• defused
• diffused

Kids Definition

unused

adjective

un·​used ˌən-ˈyüzd 

ˈən-

in the phrase "

unused to "

usually -ˈyüs(t)

1

: not accustomed

unused to crowds

2

a

: not having been used before

an unused paintbrush

b

: not being in use : idle

c

: available for future use

unused vacation time