unpalatable

adjective

un·​pal·​at·​able ˌən-ˈpa-lə-tə-bəl 

1

: not palatable : distasteful

unpalatable wines

2

: unpleasant, disagreeable

… raising income tax rates is politically unpalatable …

—Mary Rowland

unpalatability

ˌən-ˌpa-lə-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

Synonyms of unpalatable

• unappetizing
• distasteful
• horrible
• bad
• unsavory
• awful
• brackish
• nasty
• bland

Examples of unpalatable in a Sentence

pasta and honey is an unpalatable combination

hesitated before sharing some of the more unpalatable details of his captivity

Recent Examples on the Web

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has previously signaled that the White House is cautious about pushing too hard in defiance of the bond market—even if a hold or a hike in the base rate is politically unpalatable. — Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 14 Sep. 2026

Although no plant is 100% animal-proof, some spring-blooming bulbs have toxic or unpalatable self-defenses that deer, rabbits and rodents tend to avoid. — ABC News, 8 Sep. 2026

This concentration of wealth and innovation force unpalatable decisions onto middle powers. — Wal Van Lierop, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026

That’s a crucial difference many in Hollywood say will keep California less competitive than other locations, though such a provision is likely unpalatable in the broader state Legislature. — Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 25 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1658, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for unpalatable

• palatable