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Definition of unfortunate

unfortunate

/ʌnˈfɔːr.tʃə.nət/
un · for · tu · nate
Adverb:unfortunately
•
Plural:unfortunates
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unfortunate Lexical Profile

unfortunate Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having or marked by bad fortune; unlucky or unsuccessful.

Example

"The unfortunate travelers were stranded at the airport for two days due to the blizzard."

2

Regrettable, inappropriate, or unsuitable in a given situation.

Example

"He made an unfortunate remark during the meeting that offended several colleagues."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A person who suffers from bad luck, poverty, or miserable circumstances.

Example

"The charity opened a new shelter to provide warm meals for the unfortunates of the city."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for unfortunate

• Nearby Words

unformed
unformulated
unfortified
unfortunate
unfortunately
unfortunateness
unfought

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 15th century, formed from the Old English prefix 'un-' (not) and 'fortunate', which derives from Latin 'fortunatus' (prosperous, lucky), ultimately from 'fortuna' (chance, fate).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Unfortunate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 4, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/unfortunate
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