Unkind: meaning, definitions and examples

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unkind

 

[ ʌnˈkaɪnd ]

Adjective / Adverb
Context #1 | Adjective

behavior towards others

Not kind; lacking kindness; not showing sympathy or understanding for other people.

Synonyms

cruel, harsh, mean, unkindly

Examples of usage

  • He was unkind to his classmates, always making fun of them.
  • It is unkind to ignore someone who is in need of help.
  • She regretted her unkind words as soon as she said them.
Context #2 | Adverb

in actions or behavior

In a way that is not kind or considerate towards others.

Synonyms

cruelly, harshly, uncaringly

Examples of usage

  • She spoke unkindly to the waiter, making him feel uncomfortable.
  • He treated his subordinates unkindly, never appreciating their hard work.

Translations

Translations of the word "unkind" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desagradável

🇮🇳 अक्रूर

🇩🇪 unfreundlich

🇮🇩 tidak baik

🇺🇦 недобрий

🇵🇱 nieuprzejmy

🇯🇵 無慈悲な

🇫🇷 méchant

🇪🇸 desagradable

🇹🇷 kaba

🇰🇷 불친절한

🇸🇦 غير لطيف

🇨🇿 nepříjemný

🇸🇰 nepríjemný

🇨🇳 不友好

🇸🇮 neprijazen

🇮🇸 ókur

🇰🇿 жаман

🇬🇪 უცნაური

🇦🇿 nəcib

🇲🇽 desagradable

Etymology

The word 'unkind' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'kind' which comes from the Middle English 'kende' meaning 'natural, well-disposed'. Over time, 'unkind' evolved to represent the opposite of being well-disposed or showing kindness towards others. The concept of kindness has been valued in various cultures and societies throughout history, highlighting the importance of treating others with compassion and empathy.

See also: kind, kinden, kindergarten, kindle, kindling, kindly, kindness, kindred, kinds, unkindly, unkindness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,725, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.