unethical

adjective

un·​eth·​i·​cal ˌən-ˈe-thi-kəl How to pronounce unethical (audio)
: not conforming to a high moral standard : morally wrong : not ethical
illegal and unethical business practices
immoral and unethical behavior
unethically adverb

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
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.
If senior leadership cuts corners, tolerates unethical behavior or avoids scrutiny, that tone filters down. Toby Braun, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025 All other activity, from running a business to producing unnecessary luxuries (including, notably, literature), were thus unethical, even parasitical, to the extent that one’s time ought to be spent in useful production, especially agriculture. Ben Woollard, JSTOR Daily, 18 June 2025 These systems are intended to protect us from inside dealings, political favors, gifts for gain and other unethical behavior. Glen Casel, The Orlando Sentinel, 18 June 2025 Sweden is the latest country to examine its international adoption policies after accusations of unethical practices, particularly in South Korea. The Associated Press, Arkansas Online, 3 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for unethical

Word History

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unethical was in 1871

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Cite this Entry

“Unethical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unethical. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

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