Meaning & Definition of word "Unfriendly"

Unfriendly

/ʌnˈfrɛndli/

adjective:

  • 1. Not friendly; hostile or antagonistic.
    • Example: His unfriendly demeanor made it clear that he did not want to engage in conversation.
  • 2. Not conducive to friendship or kindness.
    • Example: The unfriendly workplace environment led to high employee turnover.
  • 3. Lacking warmth or kindness.
    • Example: She was taken aback by her unfriendly reception at the party.
  • 4. Characterized by lack of support or cooperation.
    • Example: The unfriendly response from the community left the organization feeling isolated.

Etymology

From the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'friendly' from Old English 'freondlic', meaning 'of a friend'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

unfriendly fire:

Accidental fire from one's own forces.

Related Words

unfriendliness:

The quality of being unfriendly.

friend:

A person with whom one has a bond of mutual affection.

Slang Meanings of unfriendly

Meaning: Ice cold

Example Sentence: After the argument, he was ice cold towards her.

Meaning: Giving someone the cold shoulder

Example Sentence: She gave him the cold shoulder after their fight.