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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.

Continuing claims, which scale with the total size of the unemployed population, fell to 1.77 million in the week through April 25 versus 1.78 million a week earlier.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 7, 2026

Being unemployed for half a year takes a toll on both your wallet and your self-worth.

From MarketWatch • May 6, 2026

With her husband unemployed, she says she has been putting off medical care for a painful tooth for three months because she can't afford it or find anyone to lend her the money.

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

But he’s not thriving: an unemployed, heavily medicated burden.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

Again I met the Irish chap and we discussed world happenings, the vast armies of unemployed, the rising tide of radical action.

From "Black Boy" by Richard Wright

Vocabulary lists containing unemployed

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