unhappy

[ uhn-hap-ee ]

adjective

, un·hap·pi·er, un·hap·pi·est.

1. sad; miserable; wretched:

   Why is she so unhappy?

   Synonyms: distressed, cheerless, downcast, sorrowful

2. unfortunate; unlucky:

   an unhappy incident.

   Synonyms: hapless

3. unfavorable; inauspicious:

   an unhappy omen.

   Synonyms: unpropitious

4. infelicitous; unsuitable:

   an unhappy choice of words.

   Synonyms: inapt, inappropriate

5. Archaic. causing trouble; reprehensible; troublesome.

unhappy

/ ʌnˈhæpɪ /

adjective

1. not joyful; sad or depressed
2. unfortunate or wretched

   an unhappy fellow

3. tactless or inappropriate

   an unhappy remark

4. archaic.
   unfavourable

Derived Forms

• unˈhappily, adverb
• unˈhappiness, noun

Other Words From

• un·happi·ly adverb
• un·happi·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unhappy¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English: “causing misfortune, objectionable”; un- ¹ + happy

Example Sentences

During Smollett's trial, prosecutors alleged he staged the attack because he was unhappy with a television studio's response to hate mail he received.

From BBC

However, he and team-mate George Russell had a series of accidents in the US Grand Prix last month and Hamilton was unhappy with the handling of his car in Brazil.

From BBC

Developing nations said they are unhappy that a pot of money has not been agreed to help them tackle climate change.

From BBC

“We are saddened and disappointed that some residents of the Hollywood Arts Collective are unhappy with the property,” Pynes said.

From Los Angeles Times

Businesses unhappy with the findings could reject them and pursue a claim against a provider through the county courts.

From BBC

Related Words

• depressed
• despondent
• miserable
• not happy
• sorry