Definition

Existing or happening without someone's knowledge.

Example

The decision was made unbeknown to the entire team.

Conversation

Did you hear about the event happening next week?

No, I haven't! What's going on?

There's a surprise party for Jake, but it's all unbeknown to him.

Wow, that sounds fun! I hope he doesn't find out before then.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unbeknown → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "beknown" (from Old English "becnan", meaning to make known). The word "unbeknown" means not known or unknown, referring to something that is not made known to someone.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') and 'made known' ('beknown') to remember that 'unbeknown' means something that is not known.

Visually Confused Words