unused

adjective

un·​used ˌən-ˈyüzd 

in the phrase "unused to" usually -ˈyüs(t)

1

: not habituated : unaccustomed

unused to crowds

2

: not used: such as

a

: fresh, new

set an unused canvas on the easel

b

: not put to use : idle

unused land

c

: not consumed : accrued

unused sick leave

Synonyms of unused

• unadjusted
• unadapted
• unaccustomed

Examples of unused in a Sentence

The library has been unused for 10 years.

I have four days of unused vacation time left.

Recent Examples on the Web

Crews work to uncover and cool unused coal which has smoldered for 20 years near Florence, Colorado. —Logan Smith, CBS News, 11 Apr. 2026

Singh’s business faced challenges earlier this year when a crackdown on immigrant drivers led to sudden departures, shrinking the available labor pool and leaving 15 of his trucks unused. —Los Angeles Times, 9 Apr. 2026

Another approach is to set aside a consistent amount each year, with unused funds accumulating over time to cover larger expenses later in retirement, says Shagawat. —Mike Winters, CNBC, 9 Apr. 2026

Now, soundstages and other production infrastructure largely sit empty and unused. —Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 9 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing unused

• unused to

Rhymes for unused

• disabused
• overused
• underused
• unexcused
• abused
• accused
• amused
• bemused
• confused
• contused
• defused
• diffused

Kids Definition

unused

adjective

un·​used ˌən-ˈyüzd 

ˈən-

in the phrase "

unused to "

usually -ˈyüs(t)

1

: not accustomed

unused to crowds

2

a

: not having been used before

an unused paintbrush

b

: not being in use : idle

c

: available for future use

unused vacation time