Definition

Feeling sick or not healthy; having a condition that makes you feel bad.

Example

She stayed home from work because she was feeling unwell.

Conversation

Hey, you seem a bit off today, are you feeling okay?

Not really, I've been feeling unwell since yesterday.

I’m sorry to hear that; did you eat something bad?

I think it might just be a cold, but I appreciate your concern.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unwell → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "well" (from Old English "wel", meaning in good health or satisfactory). The word "unwell" means not in good health or feeling ill.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'well', which means healthy. This helps you remember that 'unwell' means not feeling healthy.

Visually Confused Words