unfilial

[ uhn-fil-ee-uhl ]

adjective

1. not befitting a son or daughter; violating the customary obligation of a child to a parent.

Other Words From

• un·fili·al·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of unfilial¹

First recorded in 1605–15; un- ¹ + filial

Example Sentences

One reads: “To bring the virus back is unfilial. Passing it to your parents is unconscionable.”

From Washington Post

“If you come home with the disease, you are unfilial,” another exclaims.

From New York Times

Children are afraid of appearing unfilial.

From Washington Post

It was more likely that he would be beaten for his unfilial conduct rather than his uncle suffer, and in the end he would go in fear of his life, for if the robbers heard of it, they would kill him for revenge.

From Literature

But many Chinese are unwilling, fearing that it is unfilial to one’s ancestors be buried with organs missing.

From New York Times

Related Words

• blasphemous
• contemptuous
• flippant
• impolite
• profane
• sacrilegious