undocumented
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌʌnˈdɒkjʊˌmɛntɪd/
KK: /ʌnˈdɑːkjʊˌmɛntɪd/
adjective
Definition
Not having the necessary official papers or documents, often referring to people living or working in a country without legal permission.
Example
Many undocumented immigrants face challenges in finding work and accessing services.
Conversation
Did you hear about the undocumented workers in our area?
Yeah, it’s such a complicated situation for them.
I can't believe they live in fear of being discovered.
Right? They just want a better life, like everyone else.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
unrecorded
unverified
illegitimate
Antonyms
documented
verified
legitimate
noun
Definition
A person who does not have the necessary official papers or identification, often related to immigration status.
Example
Many undocumented individuals seek a better life in a new country.
Conversation
I heard there are a lot of undocumented people struggling in our city.
Yeah, it's really sad to see how they have to live in fear.
I wish there was more support for undocumented individuals.
Root Explanation
Undocumented → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "document" (from Latin "documentum", meaning a lesson or proof). The word "undocumented" means not having the necessary documents or proof.
Memory Tip
Think of 'not' ('un-') having the necessary 'proof' or 'lesson' ('document') — that's what undocumented means.
Visually Confused Words
unmonumented
unfomented
uncemented
unomened
unemolumented
document