unsavory

adjective

un·​sa·​vory ˌən-ˈsā-və-rē How to pronounce unsavory (audio)
-ˈsāv-rē
Synonyms of unsavorynext
1
: insipid, tasteless
2
a
: unpleasant to taste or smell
b
: disagreeable, distasteful
an unsavory assignment
especially : morally offensive
unsavory business practices

Synonyms of unsavory

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Examples of unsavory in a Sentence

He is an unsavory character. an unsavory blend of spices that simply overwhelmed the fish's delicate flavor
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.
One of his more unsavory comments came in the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s murder, though. — Jon Root Outkick, FOXNews.com, 25 July 2026 Continuing any unsavory conduct right under my nose is probably a form of calling my bluff at this point. — Melissa Willets, Parents, 19 July 2026 Social media has teemed with unsavory videos of Argentinean misbehavior in the stadiums, including fans hurling racial epithets at a Black American influencer and showering Egyptians with beer. — Ishaan Tharoor, New Yorker, 16 July 2026 Moreover, a host of unsavory characters from Britain’s criminal underworld want a piece of the operation. — Denise Petski, Deadline, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unsavory

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unsavory was in the 13th century

Rhymes for unsavory

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Browse Nearby Words

unsavoriness
unsavory
unsay
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Cite this Entry

“Unsavory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unsavory. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

unsavory

adjective
un·​sa·​vory ˌən-ˈsāv(-ə)-rē How to pronounce unsavory (audio)
ˈən-
1
: having little or no taste
2
: having a bad taste or smell
3
: morally bad
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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