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.
Tre’davious White, who was called for the second one that moved the ball to Buffalo’s 8, threw his helmet down in disgust while arguing and got an unsportsmanlike-conduct penalty. Rob Maaddi, Baltimore Sun, 19 Jan. 2026 Foligno and Kesselring both got unsportsmanlike conduct penalties. Matthew Fairburn, New York Times, 17 Jan. 2026 When Quinn Hughes was thwarted on a second period breakaway, and tripped over Winnipeg goalie Connor Hellebuyck on the play, forward Nico Sturm made his frustrations clear from the bench, landing in the box with an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 16 Jan. 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, 12 Jan. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unsportsmanlike.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unsportsmanlike. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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