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

For example, if an employer matches 401(k) contributions, contributing nothing could mean leaving part of the compensation package unused. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 7 Oct. 2026

There was an empty place at the Smith table, an unused seat in the car. — Thomas Lake, AJC.com, 7 Oct. 2026

Renting out unused capacity could generate revenue relatively quickly, but Muse has the potential to become a much larger business over time. — Alexa Lomonaco, CNBC, 6 Oct. 2026

For example, an advance provisioning allowance is a deposit used to pay variable expenses, including fuel, food, drinks and marina fees, with any unused balance returned. — Christoph Lymbersky, Forbes.com, 5 Oct. 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