unacceptable

adjective

un·​ac·​cept·​able ˌən-ik-ˈsep-tə-bəl How to pronounce unacceptable (audio)
-ak-
Synonyms of unacceptablenext
: not acceptable : not pleasing or welcome
unacceptability noun
unacceptably adverb

Examples of unacceptable in a Sentence

a word that is unacceptable in formal English Some of her ideas were unacceptable to other people.
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.
The head of the world’s main shipping agency, the International Maritime Organization, said on Thursday that any efforts by Tehran to permanently enforce a toll system on Hormuz would set a dangerous precedent and are unacceptable. Alex Longley, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2026 In the women’s game, the same behavior is deemed unacceptable. Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 Apr. 2026 Health inspectors also noted deficiencies such as lack of handwashing, unacceptable sanitizer usage, and accumulation of food residue on non-food equipment. Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Apr. 2026 One was eliminating Iran’s unacceptable nuclear capability. Chicago Tribune, Twin Cities, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unacceptable

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unacceptable was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Unacceptable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unacceptable. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

unacceptable

adjective
un·​ac·​cept·​able ˌən-ik-ˈsep-tə-bəl How to pronounce unacceptable (audio)
-ak-
: not acceptable : not pleasing or welcome
unacceptably adverb

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