Definition

Not having received anesthesia, which is a medication used to prevent pain during medical procedures.

Example

The patient was unanesthetized during the minor procedure, which made it quite uncomfortable for him.

Conversation

Did you hear about that surgery where the patient was unanesthetized?

No way, that sounds terrifying!

I know, right? I can't believe they did that!

That must have been an incredibly painful experience.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unanesthetized → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not), "anesthetize" (from Greek "anesthetos", meaning without sensation), and the suffix "-ed" (indicating a state or condition). The word describes a state of not being under anesthesia, hence being fully aware or sensitive to sensations.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being in a state of 'without sensation' ('anesthetize') — that's why unanesthetized means not under anesthesia.

Visually Confused Words