Synonyms for

Unused

Verb / ʌˈnju:zd / Another word for unused — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not being used; not having been put to use

Synonyms & similar words

idle fresh unutilized undeveloped idle untapped neglected abandoned vacant spare surplus extra leftover unemployed disused redundant superfluous unoccupied unexploited untried untaken untested

Synonyms by register

Formal

unoccupied unutilized idle vacant

Informal

free available spare on hand

Literary

untouched unsullied virgin

Antonyms

used utilized occupied employed busy active in use

Common collocations

  • unused potential
  • unused capacity
  • unused items
  • unused land
  • unused resources
  • unused equipment
  • unused time

Word family

noun unuse
adjective unused

Usage note

Often used to describe things that have not been put to work or employed for their intended purpose. Can also refer to something that is not currently in use.

Example sentences

  1. The unused gym equipment was gathering dust in the corner.
  2. She had a box of unused art supplies in the closet.
  3. The unused parking lot was turned into a community garden.
  4. The unused vacation days will expire at the end of the year.
  5. The unused medication should be disposed of properly.

Quotes

  • The human mind always makes progress, but it is a progress in spirals. - Madame de Stael
  • The unused voice of the intellectual outsider may be the most important voice of all. - Neil Postman
  • Unused to the situations in which I find myself, and embarassed by the slightest difficulties, I seldom discover, till too late, how I ought to act. - Frances Burney

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