unwashed

1 of 2

adjective

un·​washed ˌən-ˈwȯsht How to pronounce unwashed (audio)
-ˈwäsht
Synonyms of unwashednext
1
: not cleaned with or as if with soap and water
a sink full of unwashed dishes
2
: ignorant, plebeian
the unwashed masses
unwashedness noun

unwashed

2 of 2

noun

old-fashioned + humorous
: an ignorant or underprivileged group : rabble
—usually used with great
the great unwashed

Synonyms of unwashed

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Adjective

Noun

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Examples of unwashed in a Sentence

Adjective a sink full of unwashed dishes a TV producer who knew what the unwashed masses wanted—and unhesitatingly gave it to them Noun Aunt Edna was fond of snootily reminding us that we need not take our manners from the great unwashed.
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.
Adjective
Store unwashed in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; clean just before use to maximize freshness. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 June 2026 The two were often seen with what appeared to be unwashed, exposed roots that fluttered into beach waves down their backs. — Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 12 June 2026 Otherwise, for best quality, store unwashed okra pods in a bag in the refrigerator and use it within a couple days. — Lindsay Curtis, Health, 3 June 2026 Scabies, ringworm, rashes from numerous unknown sources and unwashed skin was wrapped in clothing of stiff linen, smelly woolens or coarse calico. — Katherine Ott, The Conversation, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unwashed

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1830, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unwashed was in the 13th century

Phrases Containing unwashed

Rhymes for unwashed

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Browse Nearby Words

unwary
unwashed
unwashen
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unwashed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unwashed. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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