Definition

Something that is not pleasant or agreeable, often referring to food that is not tasty or ideas that are hard to accept.

Example

The unpalatable truth about the situation made everyone uncomfortable.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I tried that new restaurant last night, but the food was so unpalatable that I couldn't finish my meal.

Oh no, that sounds awful! What did you order?

I went for the special, but it was just not good at all.

I guess not all places can get it right; I'll avoid that one!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unpalatable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "palatable" (from Latin "palatum", meaning the roof of the mouth or taste). The word "unpalatable" means not pleasant to taste or not agreeable to the palate.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'taste' ('palatable') — that's why unpalatable means something that is not pleasant to taste.

Visually Confused Words