unpleasant

adjective

un·​pleas·​ant ˌən-ˈple-zᵊnt 

: not pleasant : not amiable or agreeable : displeasing

unpleasant odors

unpleasantly adverb

Synonyms of unpleasant

• unpleasing
• harsh
• bad
• nasty
• ugly
• bitter
• sour
• horrible
• disgusting
• awful
• disagreeable
• sickening
• unwelcome
• rotten

Examples of unpleasant in a Sentence

I stopped taking the drug because of its unpleasant side effects.

There was an unpleasant smell coming from the basement.

The weather is so unpleasant here.

I like the shop, but the staff are so unpleasant.

Recent Examples on the Web

Depriving the plant of light discourages the development of chlorophyll—the green plant pigment responsible for color—and rids the chicory of an unpleasant flavor. — Tamar Adler, Vogue, 29 Sep. 2026

There’s all sorts of implications to a realization like that, and most of them are pretty unpleasant and tough to wrap your head around. — Andrew Unterberger, Billboard, 29 Sep. 2026

When considering thrift store furniture with upholstery, always check the cushions and padding for unpleasant odors. — Felicia Feaster, Martha Stewart, 27 Sep. 2026

Impact on regional planning Several Davidson town commissioners noted their own unpleasant history with the I-77 North toll lanes project. — Dj Simmons, Charlotte Observer, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unpleasant

• omnipresent
• peasant
• pheasant
• pleasant
• present

Kids Definition

unpleasant

adjective

un·​pleas·​ant ˌən-ˈplez-ᵊnt 

ˈən-

: not pleasant : not friendly or agreeable : displeasing

unpleasantly adverb

unpleasantness noun