Definition

Something that has not been shown to be true or valid through evidence or testing.

Example

The theory remains unproved despite many experiments.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new theory on climate change?

Yeah, but most of it seems to be unproved at this point.

I wonder how long it will take for scientists to validate it.

Hopefully soon, because we need answers to act on.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unproved → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "proved" (from Latin "probare", meaning to test or demonstrate). The word "unproved" means not tested or not demonstrated to be true.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having been 'tested' ('probare') — that's why unproved means something that hasn't been tested.

Visually Confused Words