undesirable

UK: ˌʌndɪˈzaɪərəbl | US: ˌʌndɪˈzaɪərəbl

Definition

  1. adj. not wanted or welcome; harmful or objectionable

  2. n. a person or thing considered undesirable

Structure
un <not>desire <wish>able <capable of>
Etymology

The word "undesirable" combines three morphemes:

  1. "un-" (Old English "un-"), a prefix meaning "not," negates the following root.
  2. "desire" (Latin "desiderare," meaning "to long for"), retains its core sense of "wish" or "want."
  3. "-able" (Latin "-abilis"), a suffix indicating capability or tendency.

Originally formed in the early 19th century, the term logically evolved to describe something "not capable of being wished for," emphasizing rejection or harm. Its usage expanded to label socially unwelcome individuals (e.g., "undesirables" in immigration contexts).

Examples

  1. The chemical waste has undesirable effects on the environment.

  2. His rude behavior made him an undesirable guest at the party.

  3. The policy aims to reduce undesirable outcomes in public health.

  4. The club screens members to exclude undesirable elements.

  5. She found the job offer undesirable due to its low salary.