Definition

Something that is received without having worked for it or without deserving it.

Example

He received unearned praise for the project, even though he did not contribute much.

Conversation

Did you hear about the player who scored an unearned goal last night?

Yeah, that was such a lucky break for them!

I can't believe they won because of an unearned point like that.

It just shows how unpredictable sports can be!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unearned → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "earned" (from Old English "earnian", meaning to earn or deserve). The word "unearned" means not earned or not deserved, indicating something received without effort or merit.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having to do with something that was 'earned' — so unearned means something you didn't work for.

Visually Confused Words