Definition of nonproductive
: not productive: such asa : failing to produce or yield : unproductive a nonproductive oil wellb : not directly concerned with production the nonproductive labor of clerks and inspectorsc of a cough : dry 3a
nonproductiveness
nounExplore M-W
Recent Examples of nonproductive from the Web
-
Anything that was a prescription for more concern, like civil-defense exercise, was felt to be nonproductive …
-
The economy has stalled because too much wealth is being generated in nonproductive activity, hoarded to preserve for the rich all the things government no longer provides.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'nonproductive.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of nonproductive
1830
Medical Dictionary
Learn More about nonproductive
-
See words that rhyme with nonproductive Spanish Central: Translation of nonproductive Nglish: Translation of nonproductive for Spanish speakers
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up nonproductive? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!