Definition

Not able to be sold or not suitable for sale.

Example

The store had to discount the unsalable items to clear out inventory.

Conversation

I just found out that some of my old books are unsalable.

That's a bummer! What are you going to do with them?

I guess I’ll donate them, since they’re just collecting dust now.

That sounds like a good idea; at least someone else can enjoy them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

An item or product that cannot be sold, often due to lack of demand or other issues.

Example

The store had to clear out its unsalable inventory after the season ended.

Conversation

I just found out that those old gadgets in the garage are completely unsalable.

Really? I thought someone might want them for parts.

Yeah, but it turns out they’re just considered unsalable junk now.

Root Explanation

Unsalable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "salable" (from Latin "salabilis", meaning able to be sold). The word "unsalable" means not able to be sold or unable to be sold.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'able to be sold' ('salable') — that's why unsalable means something that cannot be sold.

Visually Confused Words