as in rude
lacking in kindness, helpfulness, sympathy, etc.
an unkind remark unkind treatment It was unkind of you not to invite her.
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar Words
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of unkind
Hating on conservatives is fine, but saying something unkind about progressive ideology, individuals or groups is another matter altogether.
—
Chris Roemer,
Baltimore Sun,
10 June 2026
Critics were unkind in reviewing the musical, which hit the boards on April 22 after previewing from March 27.
—
Erik Pedersen,
Deadline,
19 May 2026
But their actions – the unfriending, the social ostracization – were unkind and extreme, at least from your telling.
—
Eric Thomas,
Sun Sentinel,
14 May 2026
But their actions — the unfriending, the social ostracization — were unkind and extreme, at least from your telling.
—
R. Eric Thomas,
Denver Post,
14 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for unkind
Chris Roemer,
Baltimore Sun,
10 June 2026
Critics were unkind in reviewing the musical, which hit the boards on April 22 after previewing from March 27.
—
Erik Pedersen,
Deadline,
19 May 2026
But their actions – the unfriending, the social ostracization – were unkind and extreme, at least from your telling.
—
Eric Thomas,
Sun Sentinel,
14 May 2026
But their actions — the unfriending, the social ostracization — were unkind and extreme, at least from your telling.
—
R. Eric Thomas,
Denver Post,
14 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for unkind
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unkind
Adjective
-
Due Amici brings Brooklyn roots and authenticity, right down to the counter service that’s not rude but not exactly warm.
-
It’s widely considered rude and annoying when people cluster by the train doors if there are more people on the platform attempting to get on.
Adjective
-
Alas, Ligeti proved to be an extraordinarily difficult collaborator, his manic perfectionism colliding with practical reality and leading to unpleasant scenes.
-
The consequences are unpleasant, but can also turn dangerous very quickly as body temperature rises.
Adjective
-
That same study found 39% held an unfavorable view of socialism, versus 47% with an unfavorable view of capitalism.
-
If the value of the stock declines, additional collateral may be required or positions may need to be liquidated under unfavorable conditions.
Adjective
-
The tension finally boils over when Joe accuses them of being inconsiderate neighbors with their loud lovemaking.
-
On its face, the hassler research might appear to give people license to avoid their inconsiderate roommates or screen their meddling mom’s phone calls.
Adjective
-
Some do this flippantly, but reader Robin suggested drivers who do this do not care and are flat-out discourteous.
Adjective
-
Refrain from talking loudly on public transport Most locals use their travel time to rest or sleep, so talking loudly is considered highly impolite to fellow passengers.
-
But honoring whiteness itself was deemed impolite, to say the least.
Cite this Entry
“Unkind.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unkind. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
