unpleasant

adjective

un·​pleas·​ant ˌən-ˈple-zᵊnt 

: not pleasant : not amiable or agreeable : displeasing

unpleasant odors

unpleasantly adverb

Synonyms

• bad
• bitter
• disagreeable
• displeasing
• distasteful
• harsh
• icky
• nasty
• rotten
• sour
• uncongenial
• unlovely
• unpalatable
• unpleasing
• unsavory
• unwelcome
• wicked
• yucky
• yukky

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

Doing so consumes water, requires the use of often eco-unfriendly cleansers, and adds an unpleasant task to janitors' daily duties. —Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 25 Apr. 2025

But that’s another unpleasant truth that is best left unspoken. —The Editors, National Review, 24 Apr. 2025

Also an adjective for an unpleasant person who acts inappropriately Word 4 (bottom right) hint — to be carried slowly by a current of air or water. —Kris Holt, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025

The second is a team of barrier-supporting ingredients that form a film over the hands after application, but not an unpleasant one. —Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 22 Apr. 2025

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