unessential

adjective

ˌən-ə-ˈsen(t)-shəl How to pronounce unessential (audio)
Definition of unessentialnext
as in unnecessary
not needed by the circumstances or to accomplish an end don't pack any unessential items until we're sure we have room for everything we'll actually need

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of unessential Often, overwork stems from excessive unessential tasks that don’t directly contribute to organizational value. — Liz Elting, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 2025 Try to avoid unessential borrowing, such as taking out a personal loan for a vacation. — Víctor Rosario, Sacbee.com, 28 Mar. 2025 In all, the resort had one, unessential ski lift damaged, while a few ski patrol and maintenance shacks burned down. — Noah Haggerty, Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2024 If necessary to reach an agreement, Biden and Blinken should threaten to withhold additional weapons systems that have been implicated in civilian casualties in Gaza and deemed unessential to Israel’s security, such as white phosphorous shells. — Andrew P. Miller, Foreign Affairs, 29 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for unessential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unessential
unnecessary
Adjective
  • However, many medical experts and public health organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reject these policies as unnecessary and ineffective.
    — Emily J. C. Wong, The Conversation, 14 Oct. 2026
  • The process is intended to prevent unnecessary healthcare costs and limit unnecessary facilities.
    — Eva Flowe October 14, Charlotte Observer, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of unnecessary

Browse Nearby Words

unescapable
unessential
unethical
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Cite this Entry

“Unessential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unessential. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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