Unwelcoming describes a place, person, or atmosphere that feels cold, unfriendly, or uncomfortable. When somewhere is unwelcoming, you get the sense that you're not really wanted there.

An unwelcoming room might have harsh lighting, no comfortable places to sit, and bare walls that make you want to leave quickly. An unwelcoming person might cross their arms, avoid eye contact, and give short answers that discourage conversation. A new student might find a classroom unwelcoming if other kids ignore them or if the teacher seems irritated by questions.

The opposite of unwelcoming is welcoming or inviting: think of a cozy library with soft chairs and friendly librarians, or a teammate who smiles and makes space for you at their lunch table.

Sometimes places can be unwelcoming without anyone meaning harm. A hiking trail might be unwelcoming because it's overgrown and confusing, or a website might be unwelcoming because it's hard to navigate. But when people are unwelcoming, it usually signals that they aren't interested in making others feel comfortable or included.