unused

adjective

un·​used ˌən-ˈyüzd How to pronounce unused (audio)
in the phrase "unused to" usually -ˈyüs(t)
Synonyms of unusednext
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In a post shared on X on Wednesday, July 1, Mamdani urged New Yorkers to set their air conditioners to 78 degrees, reduce electricity use and unplug unused electronics as temperatures continue to climb. Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026 Pay close attention to apps that mention bandwidth sharing, proxy access or earning rewards from unused internet. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 Dispose of unused bait in the trash rather than releasing in the water. Keith Matheny, Freep.com, 3 July 2026 One of the most direct things people can do is avoid flushing or discarding unused medications down the sink or toilet! Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unused

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unused was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Unused.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unused. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

unused

adjective
un·​used ˌən-ˈyüzd How to pronounce unused (audio)
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

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