Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for unemployed. Search instead for unemployab.
Definitions

unemployed

[uhn-em-ploid] / ˌʌn ɛmˈplɔɪd /
ADJECTIVE
without a job
Synonyms
STRONGEST
idle inactive jobless underemployed
STRONG
down free loafing
WEAK
at liberty between jobs closed-down disengaged fired laid-off leisured on layoff on the bench on the dole on the shelf out of a job out of action out of work resting unapplied unengaged unexercised unoccupied unused without gainful employment workless
Antonyms
STRONGEST
active busy working
WEAK
employed occupied

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But first, how do we get from unemployed house sitter to impending Italian nuptials?

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Job security is a key feature of the job hunt these days, and searches for people who are unemployed can be lengthy.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

The latest data shows 700,000 graduates are unemployed and claiming benefits and Diss says her case suggests they require a different sort of help.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

There is currently 0.9 job opening for every unemployed person.

From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026

Dey claims dey’s after de unemployed, but dey ain’t bein’ too particular about whether you’se employed or not.

From "Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston

Vocabulary lists containing unemployed

Workshop 6, Part 2

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!