Definition

Something that is unpleasant, distasteful, or morally offensive.

Example

The movie was criticized for its unsavory content.

Conversation

Did you hear about that unsavory incident at the restaurant last night?

Yeah, it sounds pretty terrible!

I can't believe they would serve such unsavory food to customers.

Right? It really gives the place a bad reputation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unsavory → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "savory" (from Old French *savorer*, meaning to taste or flavor). The word "unsavory" means not having a pleasant taste or flavor, often used to describe something distasteful or morally offensive.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having a 'pleasant taste' ('savory') — that's why unsavory means something that is not pleasant.

Visually Confused Words