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.
Their displays adapt to occupied seats, giving the nearest rider full control while unused screens show trip status or ambient imagery. — Melinda Sheckells, HollywoodReporter, 27 Aug. 2026 The money had been allocated to the Strategic Fund board in October 2022 and ended up unused. — CBS News, 27 Aug. 2026 In the summer of 2025, Gualtieri was part of a group of Florida sheriffs that proposed allowing ICE to take advantage of unused jail beds across Florida — and have Florida police transport the detainees. — Mario Ariza, ProPublica, 27 Aug. 2026 Fellow wantaway Soungoutou Magassa was an unused substitute and did not join in the post-match celebrations, having headed straight down the tunnel. — Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 26 Aug. 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

See All Rhymes for unused

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 1 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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