Definition

Not welcoming or friendly; a place that is difficult for people or living things to survive in.

Example

The inhospitable climate made it hard for any plants to grow.

Conversation

Did you hear about the place they went camping last weekend?

Yeah, I heard it was really inhospitable out there.

Exactly! I can't believe they stayed in such a harsh environment.

I know, right? I prefer somewhere more welcoming.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inhospitable is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "hospitabilis" (from Latin, meaning hospitable or welcoming). The word describes a place that is not welcoming or friendly to visitors.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not welcoming' ('in-') and 'hospitable' — that's why inhospitable means a place that is unwelcoming.

Visually Confused Words