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.
The founders argue that existing air freight networks leave thousands of smaller airports largely unused for commercial cargo transportation. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 2026 But underenrollment is not the same as failure, and unused classroom space is not proof that a school has no future. — Tim Lonergan, Sun Sentinel, 29 Oct. 2026 These pools turned an unused space into a playground for swimmers, divers, water polo enthusiasts, and boaters, especially on hot summer days. — Laura Hall, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2026 Your dock is there, but Apple still limits it to four icons, leaving a ton of unused space above and below it. — ArsTechnica, 27 Oct. 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 1 Nov. 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
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