unsportsmanlike

adjective

un·​sports·​man·​like ˌən-ˈspȯrts-mən-ˌlīk How to pronounce unsportsmanlike (audio)
Synonyms of unsportsmanlikenext
: not characteristic of or exhibiting good sportsmanship : not sportsmanlike
cited for unsportsmanlike behavior

Examples of unsportsmanlike in a Sentence

Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. was suspended for unsportsmanlike conduct
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
This wasn’t the same as the Marty Schottenheimer unsportsmanlike conduct penalty that cost the San Diego Chargers a playoff game a couple of decades ago. Jim Alexander, Oc Register, 23 Mar. 2026 Earlier this month, the Big East fined Hurley $25,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct. ABC News, 21 Mar. 2026 Persons who tamper with or abuse any aspect of the Giveaway or website, who act in an unsportsmanlike or disruptive manner or who are in violation of these Official Rules, as solely determined by Sponsor, will be disqualified and all associated entries will be void. AJC.com, 6 Mar. 2026 That seemingly prompted Gilgeous-Alexander to throw the ball at Jokic and receive an unsportsmanlike technical foul. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 28 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unsportsmanlike

Word History

First Known Use

1754, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unsportsmanlike was in 1754

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Cite this Entry

“Unsportsmanlike.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unsportsmanlike. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026.

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