Definition

Describing something that has not been subjected to heat or firing, often used in the context of ceramics or pottery.

Example

The artist displayed a collection of unfired clay sculptures before they were baked in the kiln.

Conversation

Did you see the new pottery they made in class?

Yeah, I did! I noticed some pieces were still unfired.

I wonder if they will fire them soon to finish the process.

I hope so! The unfired ones look interesting but need that final touch.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unfired → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "fired" (from Old English "fyrd", meaning to heat or ignite). The word "unfired" means not having been heated or ignited, typically referring to clay or ceramics that have not undergone the firing process.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having been 'heated' or 'ignited' ('fired') — that's why unfired means something that hasn't been heated.

Visually Confused Words