adjective
-
not being or never having been made use of
-
not accustomed or used (to something)
Etymology
Origin of unused
Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; see origin at un- 1, used
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.
I now take so many pills twice a day, my 65-year-old mom gifted me an unused pill case she had bought for herself.
From Slate • May 23, 2026
However, I understand the tax consequences my estate will face for any unused portion of my health-savings account.
From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026
He adds, “Building an ADU on unused space lets you keep the garage and, like with Julie’s ADU, creates a spacious, private front patio connected to her studio and living room.”
From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2026
“Over the years, millions of dollars in unused miles and points have been rendered useless due to airline shutdowns,” said McGee.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 2, 2026
With fingers unused to such tasks, he untangled my hair and brushed it until my head ached.
From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
