Definition

Describing something that has not yet broken open from its shell, typically referring to eggs.

Example

The unhatched eggs were carefully monitored for signs of life.

Conversation

Did you see the bird's nest in the tree?

Yeah, I noticed it! Are there any eggs in it?

I think they are still unhatched since I haven't seen any chicks yet.

That's interesting! I hope we get to see them hatch soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unhatched → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "hatched" (from Old English "hæccan", meaning to cause to break open or emerge from an egg). The word "unhatched" means not having broken open or emerged from an egg.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having 'broken open' ('hatched') — that's why unhatched refers to eggs that have not yet opened.

Visually Confused Words