unused

adjective

un·​used ˌən-ˈyüzd 

in the phrase "unused to" usually -ˈyüs(t)

1

: not habituated : unaccustomed

unused to crowds

2

: not used: such as

a

: fresh, new

set an unused canvas on the easel

b

: not put to use : idle

unused land

c

: not consumed : accrued

unused sick leave

Synonyms of unused

• unadjusted
• unadapted
• unaccustomed

Examples of unused in a Sentence

The library has been unused for 10 years.

I have four days of unused vacation time left.

Recent Examples on the Web

Behind the scenes, the hotel team reduces food waste through a number of initiatives, including distributing unused food to those in need through partnerships with local associations. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Apr. 2026

Hanging baskets provide a personal touch to the garden, bringing flowers and foliage to unused nooks and crannies. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 27 Apr. 2026

As one example, Servais pointed to a new pop-up fair in Brussels called Parloir that generated considerable buzz for its inaugural edition in the Belgian capital this year, held in an unused office building currently under construction. —Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 26 Apr. 2026

Another 10 gathered on plastic trash and one was on an unused steam table. —David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 24 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing unused

• unused to

Rhymes for unused

• disabused
• overused
• underused
• unexcused
• abused
• accused
• amused
• bemused
• confused
• contused
• defused
• diffused

Kids Definition

unused

adjective

un·​used ˌən-ˈyüzd 

ˈən-

in the phrase "

unused to "

usually -ˈyüs(t)

1

: not accustomed

unused to crowds

2

a

: not having been used before

an unused paintbrush

b

: not being in use : idle

c

: available for future use

unused vacation time