Unworthy

Unworthy is an adjective used to describe something or someone that does not deserve merit, respect, or consideration. It can refer to actions deemed improper or inadequate, as well as to a person who is judged as lacking the qualities that would warrant esteem. The word is frequently used in moral, ethical, or religious contexts, but it also appears in secular discussions of merit, status, or eligibility.

Unworthy derives from the prefix un- meaning 'not' and the adjective worthy, which comes from Old English wyrþe, related to having worth or merit. The negative form has been in use in English since the Middle Ages and remains common in modern speech and writing.

In everyday language, unworthy can describe conduct that falls short of standards or expectations, for example, 'an unworthy reply' or 'unworthy of praise.' It may express moral judgment, but it can also be used more mildly to indicate that something is not appropriate to a particular person or situation. In religious or ceremonial contexts, calling someone unworthy can signal exclusion or a perceived lack of right to participate in certain rites, depending on the tradition.

Related nouns include unworthiness, describing the state of lacking merit. Synonyms include undeserving and unmerited, while antonyms include worthy and deserving. The term can carry strong normative tones, so its impact depends on context and speaker intention.

Because it centers on value and eligibility, unworthy features in literature as a tool for character assessment and social critique, and it appears in discussions of virtue, meritocracy, and social judgment.