unwanted

adjective

un·​want·​ed ˌən-ˈwän-təd How to pronounce unwanted (audio)
Synonyms of unwantednext
: not wanted or needed
attracting unwanted attention
giving away some unwanted possessions

Examples of unwanted in a 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.
The shop also pushed back against Clarkson’s version of events, saying all patrons are welcome, then lamented that the singer’s harsh statement had caused unwanted attention. — Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 16 Oct. 2026 Our very language perpetuates the idea of bogs as unvalued and unwanted. — Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2026 Nicole Nguyen saved time by enlisting Dots for help canceling unwanted subscriptions. — Adam Clark Estes, Vox, 16 Oct. 2026 Researchers are working to reduce unwanted light scattering, which can affect measurement stability. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unwanted

Word History

First Known Use

1697, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unwanted was in 1697

Rhymes for unwanted

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Browse Nearby Words

unwaning
unwanted
unware
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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