Meaning & Definition of word "Unsavory"
Unsavory
/ʌnˈseɪvəri/
adjective:
- 1. Not pleasant in taste or smell; offensive.
- Example: The unsavory odor coming from the old refrigerator made me gag.
- 2. Morally offensive or disgusting; distasteful.
- Example: The politician's unsavory past eventually caught up with him during the election.
- 3. Unappetizing; not pleasing to the palate.
- Example: The unsavory dish at the restaurant left a bad impression on the diners.
Etymology
●From un- + savory, meaning not savory or not pleasing.
Common Phrases and Expressions
unsavory character:
A person whose moral qualities are questionable.
unsavory reputation:
A reputation that is generally regarded as negative or undesirable.
Related Words
savory:
Pleasant to taste or smell; also refers to a category of foods that are salty or spicy rather than sweet.
toxic:
Poisonous; can also refer to something that is harmful or unpleasant in a figurative sense.
Slang Meanings of unsavory
Meaning: Sketchy or shady.
● Example Sentence: That guy seems a bit unsavory; I wouldn't trust him.
Meaning: Disreputable.
● Example Sentence: The unsavory bar was known for attracting trouble.