unleaded
2 synonyms and 1 antonym for unleaded, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Not containing lead, especially describing petrol made without added lead compounds.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
lead-free
leadless
Antonyms
leaded
How to use unleaded
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
unleaded petrol
unleaded fuel
regular unleaded
premium unleaded
A standard, everyday term used at petrol stations and in official fuel labelling.
Etymology
Formed in English by adding the prefix un- to leaded, giving the sense of petrol or other substances made without lead. In the United States the word also carries a precise technical meaning, since a federal standard defines exactly how much lead unleaded petrol is allowed to contain.
Full origin of unleaded →Frequently asked questions
What does unleaded mean?
It describes something, usually petrol, that has no lead added to it. Leaded petrol used to contain lead compounds to help engines run smoothly, and unleaded petrol was developed without them.
Is unleaded petrol the same as regular petrol?
Yes, in most countries today regular petrol sold at the pump is unleaded, since leaded petrol for ordinary cars has been phased out.
Can I use unleaded petrol in any car?
Modern petrol engines are designed for unleaded fuel, but it is always worth checking a vehicle's handbook, especially for older or classic cars.
