Unfavourite

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. A person or item that is not preferred and typically regarded with distaste or disapproval can be described as being at odds with the most favored choices
2. This term signifies someone or something that lacks favor, often leading to a sentiment of dislike compared to others
3. A person or thing that is not favored and is often met with disapproval represents a contrast to preferred individuals or options

Etymology: "Unfavourite" is a plain formation: the prefix "un-", meaning "not," attached to "favourite." The base word itself has a longer story. "Favourite" came into English from French "favori," which in turn drew on Italian "favorito," meaning "favoured," and ultimately on Latin "favere," "to show kindness to." Its earliest English sense was a person who enjoys another's special regard, such as a king's preferred courtier, before it broadened to anything preferred above others. The combination "un-" plus "favourite" creates a negative counterpart: something or someone that is not preferred, and so falls out of favour in comparison with others. Because "un-" is productive in English, it can attach to many nouns and adjectives this way, and "unfavourite" follows that same pattern rather than descending from any older, separate word.

Synonyms: disliked

Antonyms: favourite