unfinished

adjective

un·​fin·​ished ˌən-ˈfi-nisht 

: not finished:

a

: not brought to an end or to the desired final state

an unfinished building/play/sentence

b

: being in a rough state : unpolished

unfinished wood

c

: subjected to no other processes (such as bleaching or dyeing) after coming from the loom

Examples of unfinished in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Without clear sightlines into daily operations, unfinished work goes unnoticed and deferred tasks build up. — Matt Lautz, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

On a roster loaded with unfinished evaluations, landing in Miami has given Ferrell another chance to shape how his own story is told. — Tyler M. Carmona, Miami Herald, 3 Aug. 2026

Gordon and Tonali have left, while the new players Newcastle have brought in are young and unfinished. — David Ornstein, New York Times, 30 July 2026

Today, Sip City still feels unfinished, if only because Humaideh treats it as something that can and will keep changing. — Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 27 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1539, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unfinished

• unfinished business

Rhymes for unfinished

• semifinished
• undiminished
• diminished
• refinished
• finished

Kids Definition

unfinished

adjective

un·​fin·​ished ˌən-ˈfin-isht 

: not finished

especially : not brought to the desired state

unfinished furniture