Unhealthy

/ʌnˈhɛlθi/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
not conducive to health; harmful to physical or mental well-being.
Eating too much junk food can lead to unhealthy habits.
characterized by disease or a lack of health.
She has been feeling unhealthy due to her recent illness.
not morally or socially acceptable; detrimental.
The unhealthy relationship negatively affected his mental state.
not able to function properly due to poor conditions.
The unhealthy environment in the office caused many employees to fall ill.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' combined with 'healthy'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

unhealthy habits
Behaviors that negatively impact one's health.
unhealthy relationship
A relationship that is detrimental to one or both parties.
unhealthy diet
A diet lacking in the essential nutrients necessary for good health.

Related Words

health
The state of being free from illness.
fitness
The condition of being physically fit and healthy.
wellness
The state of being in good health, especially as an actively pursued goal.

Slang Meanings

Heart attack on a plate
Those triple cheeseburgers are a heart attack on a plate!
Death food
That ultra-processed snack is basically death food.