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Definition of unsavory

unsavory

/ʌnˈseɪvəri/
(UK: unsavoury)
un · sa · vor · y
Adverb:unsavorily
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unsavory Lexical Profile

unsavory Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

American Disagreeable and unpleasant because of moral disreputability or offensive character.

Example

"The investigation uncovered several unsavory details about the company's financial practices."

2

American Unpleasant to taste or smell; unpalatable.

Example

"The stew had an unsavory odor after sitting on the counter overnight."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for unsavory

• Nearby Words

unsatisfyingly
unsaturated
unsaved
unsavory
unsay
unsayable
unscalable

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the prefix 'un-' (not) and 'savory', which comes from Old French 'savoure' (tasty, fragrant), ultimately derived from Latin 'sapor' (taste, flavor).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Unsavory. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/unsavory
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