LEFTOVER Synonyms: 91 Similar and Opposite Words

leftover 1 of 2

noun

ˈleft-ˌō-vər

Definition of leftover

as in remainder

an unused or unwanted piece or item typically of small size or value that doormat is just a leftover from when the new carpet was installed

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

whole

as in rest

leftovers plural a remaining group or portion take as many of these calendars as you want, and put the leftovers back on the shelf

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

leftover

2 of 2

adjective

as in residual

still existing or present after other parts are used or removed This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice.

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

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 leftover

Noun

How to Store Tequila-Watermelon Wedges Store any leftover watermelon wedges in an airtight container. — Martha Stewart, 7 Aug. 2026 The best part is the leftovers which, after resting, are somehow more tomatoey. — The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 7 Aug. 2026

Adjective

When the oven heats up again, leftover residue can bake onto the surface. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 13 June 2026 The Fresh Stretch Pod is a clever kitchen gadget designed to keep leftover halves fresher by reducing air exposure. — Better Homes & Gardens, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for leftover

Recent Examples of Synonyms for leftover

Noun

But instead of oxygen making up the rest, that remainder is composed of tough-to-breathe methane and molecular hydrogen.

— Phil Plait, Scientific American, 31 July 2026
Chawinga thumped her chest with pride after scoring her country’s first-ever WAFCON goal, which set off an intoxicating remainder of the match.

— Melanie Anzidei, New York Times, 28 July 2026

Definition of remainder

Noun

The Virgo Moon moves through your private 12th house, making rest, reflection, and emotional processing more important than constant availability.

— Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 14 Aug. 2026
There’s the fact that the top 1 percent of Americans now make over twenty-six times more money than all the rest of the country.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of rest

Noun

The remnants of the Boston Market restaurant sign are still visible … but not for long.

— Linda Zavoral, Mercury News, 11 Aug. 2026
Textile waste — which includes manufacturing remnants, unwanted clothes and linens, and unsold products — is one of the industry’s most pressing challenges.

— Anne D’Innocenzio, Los Angeles Times, 10 Aug. 2026

Definition of remnant

Browse Nearby Words

left (out)

leftover

leftovers

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Leftover.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/leftover. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of leftover

noun

adjective

Example Sentences

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