Search Dictionary
Definition of unwelcome

unwelcome

/ʌnˈwɛl.kəm/
un · wel · come
Adverb:unwelcomely
JUMP TO:

unwelcome Lexical Profile

unwelcome Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Not gladly received, wanted, or invited; causing displeasure or discomfort.

Example

"The sudden drop in temperature was an unwelcome surprise for the spring gardeners."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for unwelcome
Antonyms
View all antonyms for unwelcome

Word Nuance & Usage

"Unwelcome" means not wanted or not gladly received, whereas "unwelcoming" describes a person or place that behaves in an unfriendly or inhospitable manner toward guests.

• Rhymes for unwelcome

• Nearby Words

unwed
unwedded
unweighted
unwelcome
unwelcomely
unwelcoming
unwell

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the prefix "un-" (meaning "not") and "welcome," which derives from the Old English "wilcuma" (meaning "a desired guest").

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Unwelcome. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/unwelcome
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.