# unwelcome

/ənˈwɛɫkəm/ (US) · /ʌnwˈɛlkʌm/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unwelcome
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

not wanted or not pleasant. You use this to describe things like bad news or people who are not invited.

For teachers: not wanted, pleasing, or welcome; causing a feeling of being unwanted or causing distress. Often used to describe abstract concepts like news, changes, or intrusions.

## Examples

- The rain was an unwelcome surprise for the hikers.
- The company's announcement of job cuts was unwelcome news for the employees just before the holidays.
- Despite the diplomat's efforts to remain neutral, his presence at the private meeting was clearly unwelcome to the local leaders who preferred to settle the matter internally.

## Usage notes

- Can be used both before a noun (attributive) and after a linking verb (predicative).

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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.