Unpopular
/ʌnˈpɒpjʊlə/
Definitions
Not liked, admired, or accepted by many people; not popular.
/ʌnˈpɒpjʊlə/
Not liked or admired by many people.
The unpopular decision to raise taxes caused widespread protests.
💡 Simply: Think of a song everyone hates or a food nobody wants to eat. Being unpopular means not many people like or want it. Like when a group of kids all think a specific style of haircut is cool but someone doesn’t get one, so now they are unpopular.
👶 For kids: When something or someone isn't liked by many people, it's unpopular.
More Examples
His unpopular opinions often led to arguments.
The new hairstyle quickly became unpopular among teenagers.
The unpopular leader was soon replaced.
How It's Used
"The unpopular president faced significant criticism."
"Wearing that outfit made her unpopular at school."
From un- (not) + popular, ultimately from Latin populus (people).
The term 'unpopular' has been used since the 17th century.
Memory tip
Imagine an 'un-' (not) sign in front of 'popular.' If something is unpopular, it lacks general appeal.
Word Origin
"populus (people)"