underused

adjective

un·​der·​used ˌən-dər-ˈyüzd 

: not fully used : having more potential than is currently being realized or utilized

underused land

an underused actress

Examples of underused in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Just keep in mind that other, less problematic plants like Virginia creeper often grow in these underused spots, too. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Aug. 2026

Recognition is one of the simplest and most underused ways to drive culture, connection and momentum inside a team. — Jj Mazzo, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026

Points on the frontier represent efficient production, while points inside the frontier indicate underused resources. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Aug. 2026

The results are only so-so as Tony Stark tussles with PTSD, criminally underused antagonist Mandarin (Ben Kingsley) and yawn-worthy villain Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce). — Brian Truitt, USA Today, 2 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for underused

• abused
• accused
• amused
• bemused
• confused
• contused
• defused
• diffused
• disused
• effused
• enthused
• excused