needless

[ need-lis ]

adjective

1. unnecessary; not needed or wanted:

   a needless waste of food.

   Synonyms: uncalled-for, pointless, gratuitous, unessential

needless

/ ˈniːdlɪs /

adjective

1. not required or desired; unnecessary

Derived Forms

• ˈneedlessly, adverb
• ˈneedlessness, noun

Other Words From

• needless·ly adverb
• needless·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of needless¹

First recorded in 1175–1225, needless is from the Middle English word nedles. See need, -less

Example Sentences

None of this, needless to say, is normal.

From Salon

In the meantime, doctors’ oath to “do no harm” should mean we avoid overdiagnosing Alzheimer’s and fueling needless anxiety.

From Los Angeles Times

Needless to say, these are also battleground states necessary for a victory in either party’s column, and the subsequent targets of voter-turnout efforts, opportunistic liars, and emergency governmental resources at both the state and federal level.

From Slate

Defensive tackle Sitiveni Havili Kaufusi along with linebackers Oluwafemi Oladejo and Ale Kaho had some explaining to do after getting called for those needless penalties.

From Los Angeles Times

Needless to say, I underestimated him.

From Salon

Related Words

• excessive
• gratuitous
• pointless