# unrequited

/ˌənɹiˈkwaɪtɪd/ (US) · /ˌʌnɹɪkwˈaɪtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unrequited
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

describing a feeling or love that is not returned by the other person. You use this when you care about someone, but they do not care about you in the same way.

For teachers: describing a feeling, especially of love or affection, that is not returned by the object of one's attention. Often used to describe a one-sided emotional relationship.

## Examples

- He has had an unrequited crush on her for years.
- The novel explores the pain of unrequited love through the protagonist's failed attempts to win the heart of his neighbor.
- While some find solace in the quiet beauty of unrequited affection, others view it as a source of profound emotional exhaustion that prevents them from moving forward in life.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.