Definition

Not accepted or allowed by an authority or official body.

Example

The project was delayed because it was based on unapproved plans.

Conversation

Did you hear about that unapproved protest happening downtown?

Yeah, I saw it on social media. It seems pretty risky.

I know! It's surprising they would allow an unapproved event like that.

Right? I wonder how many people will actually show up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unapproved → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "approved" (from Latin "approbare", meaning to test or prove). The word "unapproved" means not having been tested or proven acceptable.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having been 'proven acceptable' ('approved') — that's why unapproved means something that hasn't received approval.

Visually Confused Words