Meaning & Definition of word "Unlucky"

Unlucky

/ʌnˈlʌki/

adjective:

  • 1. having or marked by bad luck; unfortunate.
    • Example: He had an unlucky day when he missed the bus and spilled coffee on his shirt.
  • 2. not having favorable circumstances or events; doomed to misfortune.
    • Example: She felt unlucky for always being the last to be picked for the team.
  • 3. experiencing a series of mishaps or undesirable occurrences.
    • Example: The unlucky traveler lost their luggage and had to wait hours for the next flight.

Etymology

Early 19th century: un- 'not' + lucky.

Common Phrases and Expressions

the unluckiest man alive:

someone who experiences continuous bad luck

unlucky charm:

an object or person believed to cause bad luck

Related Words

luck:

success or failure apparently brought by chance rather than through one's actions.

fortunate:

favored by or bringing good luck.

misfortune:

bad luck; an unfortunate condition or event.

Slang Meanings of unlucky

Meaning: bad luck

Example Sentence: That was a real bummer; talk about being unlucky.

Meaning: jinxed

Example Sentence: Ever since he started that job, he’s just been jinxed.