Unkinder: meaning, definitions and examples

😠
Add to dictionary

unkinder

 

[ ʌnˈkaɪndə ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

comparative form

The term 'unkinder' is the comparative form of 'unkind,' which means having or showing a lack of kindness. When someone is described as 'unkinder,' it suggests they are more unkind than another person or situation. It emphasizes an increase in harshness or a decrease in compassion compared to a baseline of unkindness. This word can be used in various contexts, such as personal relationships, workplace dynamics, or social interactions.

Synonyms

crueler, meaner, ruder

Examples of usage

  • She was even unkind during the argument.
  • His comments became unkind as the discussion continued.
  • The coach's remarks were unkind towards the players.

Etymology

The word 'unkinder' derives from the word 'unkind,' which came into use in the English language in the early 14th century. Its origins can be traced back to the Old English word 'unic,' meaning 'one' or 'single,' and 'cyme,' meaning 'kin' or 'kind.' The combination of these roots gradually evolved to convey the idea of a lack of kindness associated with social behavior. 'Unkind' became a recognized adjective denoting harshness or cruelty. The comparative 'unkinder' followed suit, being formed by adding the usual comparative suffix '-er' to the adjective. It reflects a linguistic tendency to create variations of adjectives to express degrees of a quality, showing an evolution of language used to describe emotional and social states.