unjust

adjective

un·​just ˌən-ˈjəst How to pronounce unjust (audio)
Synonyms of unjust
1
: characterized by injustice : unfair
received an unjust punishment
2
archaic : dishonest, faithless
unjustly adverb
unjustness
ˌən-ˈjəs(t)-nəs How to pronounce unjust (audio)
noun

Examples of unjust in a Sentence

The convict received an unjust sentence.
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.
These girls make mistakes and learn lessons while living in unfair, unequal and unjust societies in need of change. — Tara Strauch, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026 Rodriguez hopes voters connect instead with his vision for the office — one of an attorney general who takes on unjust landlords and multimillion-dollar corporations, especially those in the insurance and utility industries. — Romy Ellenbogen Herald, Miami Herald, 26 Aug. 2026 At Rimini’s Catholic festival, Leo urges believers to confront unjust economic and technological systems, asserting that ‘there can be no enemies’ and hailing young Catholics as a hopeful antidote to despair. — Giada Zampano, Los Angeles Times, 22 Aug. 2026 The lawsuit includes claims of fraud, negligent misrepresentation and unjust enrichment. — Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unjust

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Rhymes for unjust

See All Rhymes for unjust

Browse Nearby Words

unjudicious
unjust
unjustice
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unjust. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

unjust

adjective
un·​just ˌən-ˈjəst How to pronounce unjust (audio)
ˈən-
: not just : unfair
an unjust way of picking the winner
unjustly adverb
unjustness
-ˈjəs(t)-nəs How to pronounce unjust (audio)
noun

Legal Definition

unjust

adjective
un·​just
: characterized by injustice : deficient in justice and fairness
an unjust sentence
unjustly adverb
unjustness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on unjust

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for unjust

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