unjust

adjective

un·​just ˌən-ˈjəst How to pronounce unjust (audio)
Synonyms of unjust
1
: characterized by injustice : unfair
received an unjust punishment
2
archaic : dishonest, faithless
unjustly adverb
unjustness
ˌən-ˈjəs(t)-nəs How to pronounce unjust (audio)
noun

Examples of unjust in a Sentence

The convict received an unjust 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.
At Rimini’s Catholic festival, Leo urges believers to confront unjust economic and technological systems, asserting that ‘there can be no enemies’ and hailing young Catholics as a hopeful antidote to despair. — Giada Zampano, Los Angeles Times, 22 Aug. 2026 The lawsuit includes claims of fraud, negligent misrepresentation and unjust enrichment. — Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2026 The Cubs sued Wrigley View Rooftop in 2024 for misappropriation, unjust enrichment, false advertising, infringement and related claims. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 17 Aug. 2026 More than once, his white planter friends stood by him in court and kept him from unjust imprisonment and even execution. — Paul Schullery, Outdoor Life, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unjust

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unjust was in the 14th century

Rhymes for unjust

See All Rhymes for unjust

Browse Nearby Words

unjudicious
unjust
unjustice
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unjust. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

unjust

adjective
un·​just ˌən-ˈjəst How to pronounce unjust (audio)
ˈən-
: not just : unfair
an unjust way of picking the winner
unjustly adverb
unjustness
-ˈjəs(t)-nəs How to pronounce unjust (audio)
noun

Legal Definition

unjust

adjective
un·​just
: characterized by injustice : deficient in justice and fairness
an unjust sentence
unjustly adverb
unjustness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on unjust

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for unjust

Nglish: Translation of unjust for Spanish Speakers

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