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

Synonyms of unused

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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.
Without those mechanisms, AI portfolios can accumulate like unused software. — Dr. Suresh Rajappa, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 There was no soap or paper towels at the kitchen hand sinks, some storage racks were dirty and there were several pieces of unused equipment lying around. — Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 July 2026 Simonpietri has begun building syringe storage and disposal into her vanity designs, with undercabinet pullouts configured to hold unused syringes upright and another drawer concealing a top-loading sharps-disposal bin. — Elyse Moody, Architectural Digest, 27 July 2026 An unused balcony is wasted potential, especially when something as simple as a bistro set can transform a compact space into a sweet hangout. — Better Homes & Gardens, 26 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

Phrases Containing unused

Rhymes for unused

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Browse Nearby Words

unuse
unused
unused to
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Cite this Entry

“Unused.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unused. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on unused

Nglish: Translation of unused for Spanish Speakers

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