Definition

Not being looked after or watched; left without supervision or care.

Example

The children played in the park while their toys were left unattended on the bench.

Conversation

Did you see that park bench? It was completely unattended when we walked by.

Yeah, it looked like a perfect spot to relax!

I wonder if it's usually unattended like that.

Probably — people just pass by without noticing it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unattended → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "attend" (from Latin "attendere", meaning to stretch toward or pay attention). The word "unattended" means not being paid attention to or not being looked after.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') paying 'attention' ('attendere') to something — that's why something unattended is not being looked after.

Visually Confused Words