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

Any unused vacation or sick time was forfeited unless such actions violated state laws. —Michael Wayland, CNBC, 12 May 2026

Organize the contents of the cabinets and drawers and throw away any expired or unused items. —Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 11 May 2026

Gray made a 30-minute cameo off the bench in De Zerbi’s second game, the 2-2 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion, but has been an unused substitute in their last two matches. —Jay Harris, New York Times, 11 May 2026

Neuroscientists have long understood that unused abilities diminish over time. —Jonathan Avery, STAT, 11 May 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