Definition

Not fully developed or lacking experience; often used to describe young birds that do not yet have the feathers needed for flight.

Example

The unfledged bird sat quietly in the nest, waiting for its parents to return.

Conversation

Did you see that bird trying to fly?

Yeah, it looked so unfledged and awkward.

It was cute though, just hopping around.

Totally! I hope it learns to fly soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unfledged → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "fledged" (from Old English "fledgian", meaning to fly or to have feathers). The word "unfledged" describes a young bird that is not yet able to fly, hence not fully developed or equipped with feathers for flight.

Memory Tip

Think of a young bird that is 'not' ('un-') yet able to 'fly' ('fledged') — that's why unfledged means not ready to fly.

Visually Confused Words