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

Midfielder Trey Nyoni would certainly benefit from regular first-team football elsewhere after being an unused substitute 23 times in the Premier League in 2025-26. —James McNicholas, New York Times, 2 June 2026

Toss expired toiletries, old school papers, worn clothes, and unused winter gear to simplify your space. —Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 1 June 2026

Let go of unused sentimental items and focus on keeping only meaningful pieces. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 31 May 2026

Instead, the couple sells their unused power back to the grid in a system that some states hope can offer a way to help meet surging demand for electricity. —Brian Cheung, NBC news, 30 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