unused

adjective

un·​used ˌən-ˈyüzd How to pronounce unused (audio)
in the phrase "unused to" usually -ˈyüs(t)
Synonyms of unusednext
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

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
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.
Much of that gas often goes unused or gets released into the atmosphere. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 15 June 2026 Closing and sealing doors will prevent cool air from traveling to unused spaces. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 15 June 2026 The latter was an integral part of the Italy team who reached the 1990 World Cup semi-final on home soil (having been an unused squad member at the 1986 tournament in Mexico) and was then assistant to head coach Arrigo Sacchi when the Italians reached the 1994 final and lost to Brazil on penalties. Oliver Kay, New York Times, 14 June 2026 The beauty brand took unused ready-to-dye denim, applied different colors and embossed it with their logo to create lipstick cases. Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for unused

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unused was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unused.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unused. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

unused

adjective
un·​used ˌən-ˈyüzd How to pronounce unused (audio)
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

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