# unsavory

/ənˈseɪvɝi/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unsavory
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

describing something that is unpleasant, dishonest, or makes you feel slightly sick. You use this to talk about things that are not nice to look at, smell, or think about.

For teachers: disagreeable, unpleasant, or morally questionable. Often describes sensory experiences or reputations that are offensive or distasteful.

## Examples

- The old kitchen had an unsavory smell.
- The politician's past was full of unsavory details that his opponents were eager to share with the public.
- The documentary reveals the unsavory side of the industry, focusing on the exploitation of workers and the environmental damage caused by their operations.

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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.