unsavory
adjective
un·sa·vory
ˌən-ˈsā-və-rē 
-ˈsāv-rē
2
a
: unpleasant to taste or smell
b
: disagreeable, distasteful
an unsavory assignment
especially
: morally offensive
unsavory business practices
Synonyms of unsavory
Examples of unsavory in a Sentence
He is an unsavory character.
an unsavory blend of spices that simply overwhelmed the fish's delicate flavor
Recent Examples on the Web
This isn’t the first time the Disturbia actor has been embroiled in unsavory dealings.
—
Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 28 Feb. 2026
Something unsavory is afoot in Hollywood, according to Matthew McConaughey.
—Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 19 Feb. 2026
Bell and Turner expertly convey the charisma of Jack and Ed while also revealing that there’s something a little unsavory about them both.
—David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 14 Feb. 2026
Why weren’t these unsavory tactics nipped in the bud?
—Bea L. Hines, Miami Herald, 13 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for unsavory
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 28 Feb. 2026
Something unsavory is afoot in Hollywood, according to Matthew McConaughey.
—Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 19 Feb. 2026
Bell and Turner expertly convey the charisma of Jack and Ed while also revealing that there’s something a little unsavory about them both.
—David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 14 Feb. 2026
Why weren’t these unsavory tactics nipped in the bud?
—Bea L. Hines, Miami Herald, 13 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for unsavory
Cite this Entry
“Unsavory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unsavory. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
unsavory
adjective
un·sa·vory
ˌən-ˈsāv(-ə)-rē
ˈən-
1
: having little or no taste
2
: having a bad taste or smell
3
: morally bad
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
