unsavory

UK: ʌnˈseɪvəri | US: ʌnˈseɪvəri

Definition

  1. adj. unpleasant or morally offensive

  2. adj. disagreeable in taste or smell

Structure
un <not>savory <pleasant taste/morally acceptable>
Etymology

The word "unsavory" combines the negative prefix "un-" (from Old English "un-," meaning "not") with "savory," which derives from Old French "savouré" (flavored) and Latin "sapor" (taste). Originally, "savory" described pleasant flavors, later extending metaphorically to moral acceptability. "Unsavory" thus literally means "not pleasant-tasting" or "not morally acceptable," reflecting its dual usage.

Examples

  1. The restaurant was shut down due to unsavory hygiene practices.

  2. He avoided the unsavory smell of the garbage dump.

  3. The politician was involved in unsavory dealings.

  4. The soup had an unsavory aftertaste.

  5. She distanced herself from the unsavory rumors.