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.
Sort the genuine threats from the merely unpleasant ones, and a surprising amount of everyday dread will dissipate. — Angela Haupt, Time, 10 Aug. 2026 Treatments for acid reflux can help protect your teeth and reduce unpleasant sensitivity. — Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 5 Aug. 2026 This was because Lawrence made a point to make the experience as unpleasant as possible for her costar. — Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Aug. 2026 The reduction in intake was not caused by making the food unpleasant. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 July 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

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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 13 Aug. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on unpleasant

Nglish: Translation of unpleasant for Spanish Speakers

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