needless
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of needless
First recorded in 1175–1225, needless is from the Middle English word nedles. See need, -less
Explanation
Something needless isn't required, necessary, or wanted. If you haven't touched that plastic back scratcher since Christmas 1992, it's probably needless. If your mom frets every time you walk out the door, you can assure her that it's needless worry — you'll be fine. And buying extremely pricey underwear might seem to be a needless expense — who cares how fancy your underwear is? Needless comes from need and its Old English root nied, "necessity."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The San Francisco-based AI lab updated its usage policy to include "a prohibition on sustained and needless abusive or cruel behavior toward our models."
From Barron's ● Oct. 8, 2026
He is also, needless to say, in the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 25, 2026
But because they screen so thoroughly, they can also lead to needless biopsies, expenses, and anxiety.
From Slate ● Sep. 9, 2026
Portsmouth City Council said it was a "completely unsuitable location to bring the boats ashore" and brought "needless disruption" to the area.
From BBC ● Sep. 8, 2026
Good writers often use very long sentences, and they garnish them with words that are, strictly speaking, needless.
From "The Sense of Style" by Steven Pinker
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