unobserved
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ʌnˈɒbzɜːvd/
KK: /ʌnˈɑːbˌzɜːrvd/
adjective
Definition
Not seen or noticed by anyone.
Example
The unobserved bird quickly flew away when it sensed danger.
Conversation
Did you notice that cat sitting on the fence?
No, I completely missed it! Was it just sitting there, unobserved?
Yeah, it seemed pretty relaxed, just watching the world go by.
Cats have a way of blending in, especially when they're unobserved.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
invisible
unnoticed
hidden
Antonyms
observed
noticed
seen
adverb
Definition
In a manner that is not seen or noticed by anyone.
Example
The thief left the scene unobserved, making it difficult for the police to find any evidence.
Conversation
Did you see that cat sneak into the garden?
No, I missed it! It must have gone in unobserved.
Yeah, it was so quiet and stealthy.
Root Explanation
Unobserved → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "observed" (from Latin "observare", meaning to watch or pay attention to). The word "unobserved" means not being watched or not having attention paid to.
Memory Tip
Think of 'not' ('un-') watching or paying attention to something ('observed'). This helps you remember that 'unobserved' means something that is not being watched.
Visually Confused Words
unserved
unconserved
unswerved
observe
unreserved
unpostered
unkoshered
unfostered