unkind

adjective

un·​kind ˌən-ˈkīnd How to pronounce unkind (audio)
1
: not pleasing or mild : inclement
an unkind climate
2
: lacking in kindness or sympathy : harsh, cruel
unkindness noun

Examples of unkind in a Sentence

It was unkind of you not to invite her. How could you be so unkind?
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Our oldest is a teenager and can see the unkind things being said online. Escher Walcott, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025 Councilmember Ahmad Zahra, who along with Councilmember Shana Charles voted against the anti-camping enforcement policy, said the new restrictions are useless and unkind. Jonathan Horwitz, Orange County Register, 7 Mar. 2025 Bullying isn’t just a schoolyard phenomenon—kids can be unkind, but adults are often brutal. Jason Walker Psyd, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025 Most late-night shows had unkind words to say about the politicians who made theatrical performances against Trump during his address. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 7 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unkind

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unkind was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Unkind.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unkind. Accessed 30 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

unkind

adjective
un·​kind ˌən-ˈkīnd How to pronounce unkind (audio)
: not kind or sympathetic
an unkind remark
unkindly adverb
unkindness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on unkind

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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