undead

American  

[uhn-ded] / ˌʌnˈdɛd /

adjective

1. no longer alive but animated by a supernatural force, as a vampire or zombie.

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noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. undead beings collectively.

undead British  

/ ʌnˈdɛd /

adjective

1. 1. (of a fictional being, such as a vampire) technically dead but reanimated

   2. ( as collective noun; preceded by the )

      the undead

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Etymology

Origin of undead

First recorded in 1895–1900; un- ¹ ( def. ) + dead ( def. )

Example Sentences

Here are three tips to help you navigate the undead monetary mire.

From Salon • Mar. 24, 2026

Leigh Price, 51, from Builth Wells, said he was not prepping for hordes of the undead roaming the landscape, as many might assume, but for much more real threats.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

Even more recent insights that other people are more dangerous than the flesh-eating undead are played out.

From Salon • Jan. 23, 2026

Being resurrected for a fourth season doesn’t necessarily qualify a dramatic series as being among the undead, though “Industry” really is a vampire story.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 2026

It ain't fancy, but it keeps the undead from attacking settlements and multiplying like rabbits come the spring.

From "Dread Nation" by Justina Ireland