Definition

Describing something that is not controlled or organized properly.

Example

The unmanaged forest was overgrown and full of weeds.

Conversation

Have you seen the state of that garden?

Yeah, it looks really unmanaged right now.

I wonder if they plan to do anything about it soon.

I hope so; it's such a shame to let it stay like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unmanaged → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "managed" (from Old French *mener*, meaning to lead or handle). The word "unmanaged" means not led or handled, indicating a lack of control or oversight.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being applied to 'leading or handling' ('mener') — that's why unmanaged means something that is not being controlled or overseen.

Visually Confused Words