unpleasant

adjective

un·​pleas·​ant ˌən-ˈple-zᵊnt How to pronounce unpleasant (audio)
Synonyms of unpleasantnext
: not pleasant : not amiable or agreeable : displeasing
unpleasant odors
unpleasantly adverb

Synonyms of unpleasant

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Examples of unpleasant in a Sentence

I stopped taking the drug because of its unpleasant side effects. There was an unpleasant smell coming from the basement. The weather is so unpleasant here. I like the shop, but the staff are so unpleasant.
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.
Zhang and his colleagues theorize that this reaction might help plants avoid pathogens, similar to the way unpleasant smells help animals steer clear of rotten food. — Joanna Thompson, Scientific American, 17 Oct. 2026 Adapted by Duffield and Daniel Kraus from Kraus’ 2023 novel, this spectacularly unpleasant underwater adventure delivers on its premise with effects that are graphic, fascinating, and occasionally beautiful. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 14 Oct. 2026 That’s forced the 75-year-old to drain her savings to pay for essentials – such as groceries, gas, doctors’ visits and utilities – and make some unpleasant decisions. — Tami Luhby, CNN Money, 13 Oct. 2026 As unpleasant as his job might be at the moment, Harbaugh is ostensibly safe. — Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unpleasant

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unpleasant was in the 15th century

Rhymes for unpleasant

See All Rhymes for unpleasant

Browse Nearby Words

unplayable
unpleasant
unpleasantness
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Cite this Entry

“Unpleasant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unpleasant. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

unpleasant

adjective
un·​pleas·​ant ˌən-ˈplez-ᵊnt How to pronounce unpleasant (audio)
ˈən-
: not pleasant : not friendly or agreeable : displeasing
unpleasantly adverb
unpleasantness noun
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