unusable

adjective

un·​us·​able ˌən-ˈyü-zə-bəl How to pronounce unusable (audio)
Synonyms of unusablenext
: not capable of being used or fit for use : not usable
unusable documentary footage
The lavatory, totally unusable, was full of snow which had blasted in through the keyhole.—Katharine Sim
unusably
ˌən-ˈyü-zə-blē How to pronounce unusable (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of unusable

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Examples of unusable in a Sentence

a completely unusable gadget that's just taking up space in the drawer
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.
Some companies may offer refunds upon submission of photo evidence that the power cord has been cut, rendering the unit unusable. — The Spruce, 6 Aug. 2026 To get rid of the salt, factories rely on reverse osmosis, which leaves behind a concentrated, unusable brine. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 3 Aug. 2026 Open the restrooms before the park becomes unusable due to the smell of public urination. — U T Readers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Aug. 2026 Every minute a polling location is unusable during the early vote period or on Election Day is a minute that voters can’t get back. — Jonathan Webber, Sun Sentinel, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unusable

Word History

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unusable was in 1825

Rhymes for unusable

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Browse Nearby Words

unurged
unusable
unuse
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Cite this Entry

“Unusable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unusable. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on unusable

Nglish: Translation of unusable for Spanish Speakers

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