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

In addition to unpleasant flavors, how your flour smells or looks can indicate spoilage. —Hannah Lee Leidy, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Mar. 2026

Simply give your trash can a thorough soak with a dishwasher tablet and hot water to eliminate sticky buildup and unpleasant odors. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 12 Mar. 2026

The streets are covered in urine (dog or otherwise), and the subways are filled with unpleasant surprises. —Genevieve Cepeda, Travel + Leisure, 12 Mar. 2026

After the euphoria subsided, unpleasant realities set in. —Sophia La Banca, JSTOR Daily, 11 Mar. 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