unsubstantial

adjective

un·​sub·​stan·​tial ˌən-səb-ˈstan(t)-shəl 

: not substantial : lacking substance, firmness, or strength

unsubstantial shadows

unsubstantiality

ˌən-səb-ˌstan(t)-shē-ˈa-lə-tē 

noun

unsubstantially

ˌən-səb-ˈstan(t)-sh(ə-)lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• bodiless
• ethereal
• formless
• immaterial
• incorporeal
• insubstantial
• nonmaterial
• nonphysical
• spiritual
• unbodied

Examples of unsubstantial in a Sentence

as thin and unsubstantial as the wind

an unsubstantial child who was unfit to play sports of any kind

Recent Examples on the Web

The hit isn’t unsubstantial: In 2024, textile exports to the United States accounted for 10.7 percent of China’s total textile exports, valued at $14.8 billion, and 22.7 percent of China’s total apparel exports, or $36.1 billion’s worth. —Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 5 May 2025

The algorithm fed the Giants pitcher a savory yet unsubstantial diet of short-form content. —Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 31 Mar. 2025

Salads Salads don’t have to feel flimsy or unsubstantial. —Katie Workman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Sep. 2023

From a personal finance perspective, people with extra cash should feel free to put an unsubstantial portion of their wealth into high-risk, high-volatility assets like crypto or meme stocks or even Super Bowl bets (thanks for the two-touchdown performance, Cooper Kupp). —Scott Nover, Quartz, 14 Feb. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unsubstantial

• circumstantial
• insubstantial
• substantial

Kids Definition

unsubstantial

adjective

un·​sub·​stan·​tial ˌən(t)-səb-ˈstan-chəl 

: lacking substance, firmness, or strength