unethical

adjective

un·​eth·​i·​cal ˌən-ˈe-thi-kəl 

: not conforming to a high moral standard : morally wrong : not ethical

illegal and unethical business practices

immoral and unethical behavior

unethically

ˌən-ˈe-thi-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Synonyms of unethical

• immoral
• unlawful
• evil
• sinful
• vicious
• bad
• vile
• dark

Examples of unethical in a Sentence

unethical treatment of prisoners of war that was a clear violation of international law

an unethical attorney, he had no qualms about getting off clients who he knew were guilty

Recent Examples on the Web

In another nod to Scream, Cheri Oteri parodies Courteney Cox’s Gale Weathers as the comically unethical news anchor Gail Hailstorm. — Skyler Trepel, Entertainment Weekly, 27 June 2026

The fashion waste is one thing, but the unethical standards is the biggest thing for me. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 26 June 2026

Cobalt supply chains are plagued by unethical mining practices in remote regions worldwide, and the material itself poses a notable safety hazard due to its tendency to catch fire or short-circuit when overcharged. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 24 June 2026

Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei blasted the treatment of his team at the FIFA World Cup, suggesting it's been unethical. — Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 22 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unethical

• ethical