unsafe

adjective

un·​safe ˌən-ˈsāf 

unsafer; unsafest

: not safe: such as

a

: able or likely to cause harm, damage, or loss

water that is unsafe to drink

unsafe driving habits

unsafe levels of lead

b

: not giving protection from danger, harm, or loss

an unsafe vehicle

unsafe working conditions

c

: not protected from danger, harm, or loss

feeling frightened and unsafe

d

: likely to take risks : not careful

unsafe drivers

Synonyms

• dangerous
• hazardous
• risky
• perilous

Examples of unsafe in a Sentence

workers are forbidden from engaging in unsafe activities on company time

people who have a record of being unsafe drivers usually have to pay higher insurance premiums

Recent Examples on the Web

Rooted in the labor movement of the 19th century, the Labor Day holiday originated during a dismal time for America's workers, who faced long hours, low wages and unsafe conditions. —Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 19 Aug. 2025

Social media fosters diet and beauty trends that often promote unsafe products. —Rochelle Blease, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2025

And though other regions might not face evacuations, the storm will create unsafe conditions at beaches across the East Coast as many beachgoers might be looking to squeeze in one last trip before school starts. —Simmone Shah, Time, 18 Aug. 2025

The onset of strong gusty winds or flooding can cause certain preparedness activities to become unsafe. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 18 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unsafe

• vouchsafe
• chafe
• safe
• waif