unfinished

adjective

un·​fin·​ished ˌən-ˈfi-nisht How to pronounce unfinished (audio)
: not finished:
a
: not brought to an end or to the desired final state
b
: being in a rough state : unpolished
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
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.
And yet, that’s exactly what Instagram is now encouraging: to share the imperfect, the unfinished, the vulnerable. Bryanna Symone, Essence, 10 July 2025 Just remember that all-purpose cleaner is not suited for porous materials like wood, stone, or any unfinished surface. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 9 July 2025 An unfinished space could be turned into a home theater. Tori Latham, Robb Report, 7 July 2025 Though the ceasefire between Israel and Iran has been holding, ‘the war remains an unfinished project, for both sides,’ one Middle East expert warns. Nabih Bulos foreign Correspondent, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for unfinished

Word History

First Known Use

1539, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unfinished was in 1539

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Cite this Entry

“Unfinished.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfinished. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

unfinished

adjective
un·​fin·​ished ˌən-ˈfin-isht How to pronounce unfinished (audio)
: not finished
especially : not brought to the desired state
unfinished furniture

More from Merriam-Webster on unfinished

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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