What does unpopular mean?
Unpopular is an adjective meaning not liked, wanted, or supported by most people. It is commonly used to describe decisions, policies, ideas, actions, and people that encounter resistance, disapproval, or lack of appeal. Saying that a decision was unpopular usually indicates broad public dissatisfaction, while saying that someone is unpopular suggests that other people dislike or distrust that person. The word can also be used more narrowly when a proposal is unpopular within a particular profession, community, or social group. It is distinct from simply being unwanted: an unwanted object may be unnecessary, whereas an unpopular decision is actively disliked or poorly supported. In journalism and public discussion, “unpopular” often signals that a measure has consequences or consequences perceived as burdensome, though it does not by itself establish whether the decision is right or wrong.
adjectiveNot liked, wanted, or supported by most people; commonly said of an idea, decision, action, or person.
- Not generally liked or supported by most people.
- Not accepted, approved of, or favored within a particular group or context.
"The government introduced an unpopular measure to reduce public spending."
"The proposal was unpopular with both residents and local businesses."
"She became known as an unpopular but influential critic of the administration."
Sometimes doing the right thing means becoming unpopular.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of unpopular
Unpopular was formed in English in the late 16th century by adding the negating prefix un- to popular. Popular comes from Latin popularis, meaning “of the people,” ultimately derived from populus, “people.” The same Latin root also underlies related words such as populace and population.
Related word forms
How unpopular is actually used
Common in formal and informal English. It is especially frequent with decisions, policies, opinions, actions, and people, and can be followed by “with”: “unpopular with the public.”
Easily confused with unpopular
“Unwanted” means not wanted or desired, whereas “unpopular” means not liked or supported by most people.