unsafe

adjective

un·​safe ˌən-ˈsāf 

unsafer; unsafest

: not safe: such as

a

: able or likely to cause harm, damage, or loss

water that is unsafe to drink

unsafe driving habits

unsafe levels of lead

b

: not giving protection from danger, harm, or loss

an unsafe vehicle

unsafe working conditions

c

: not protected from danger, harm, or loss

feeling frightened and unsafe

d

: likely to take risks : not careful

unsafe drivers

Synonyms of unsafe

• dangerous
• hazardous
• risky
• perilous

Examples of unsafe in a Sentence

workers are forbidden from engaging in unsafe activities on company time

people who have a record of being unsafe drivers usually have to pay higher insurance premiums

Recent Examples on the Web

There is also a misconception that heavy turbulence equates to unsafe air conditions. — Joey Skladany, Travel + Leisure, 10 July 2026

The roof later became structurally unsafe so firefighters used helicopters and water cannons to douse the flames. — Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026

His articles argued that migrant laborers were essential to California agriculture yet often faced hostility, poverty and unsafe living conditions. — James Ward, USA Today, 10 July 2026

The inspector also noted several repeat violations, including dirty floors, food held at an unsafe temperature, and beans and meat stored without date markings. — Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unsafe

• vouchsafe
• chafe
• safe
• waif