unpleasant

adjective

un·​pleas·​ant ˌən-ˈple-zᵊnt 

: not pleasant : not amiable or agreeable : displeasing

unpleasant odors

unpleasantly adverb

Synonyms of unpleasant

• unpleasing
• harsh
• bad
• nasty
• ugly
• bitter
• sour
• horrible
• disgusting
• awful
• disagreeable
• sickening
• unwelcome
• rotten

Examples of unpleasant in a Sentence

I stopped taking the drug because of its unpleasant side effects.

There was an unpleasant smell coming from the basement.

The weather is so unpleasant here.

I like the shop, but the staff are so unpleasant.

Recent Examples on the Web

Now would be a good time to have some unpleasant but necessary conversations, such as identifying near-empty schools that should be closed. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2026

Six years later, school and business closures, mask wearing, and social distancing are dim, unpleasant memories. —Helen Branswell, STAT, 27 Apr. 2026

Any unwanted fact or unpleasant experience is swiftly erased by the sheep’s wilfully short memories — only veteran merino Mopple (Chris O’Dowd) is unable to share in this collective spotless mind, carrying the knowledge that his cohorts have blithely shed. —Guy Lodge, Variety, 27 Apr. 2026

The dusty chocolate coating is bitter and unpleasant, and there isn’t enough salt to offset it. —Alex Beggs, Bon Appetit Magazine, 25 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unpleasant

• omnipresent
• peasant
• pheasant
• pleasant
• present

Kids Definition

unpleasant

adjective

un·​pleas·​ant ˌən-ˈplez-ᵊnt 

ˈən-

: not pleasant : not friendly or agreeable : displeasing

unpleasantly adverb

unpleasantness noun