Definition

Something that happens without being caused or triggered by any action or event.

Example

The dog bit him in an unprovoked manner, without any warning.

Conversation

Did you hear about that fight at the park yesterday?

Yeah, it was really shocking, especially since it was so unprovoked.

I know, right? It makes you wonder what triggered it.

Exactly, some people just act out for no reason at all.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unprovoked → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "provocare" (from Latin, meaning to call forth or incite). The word "unprovoked" means not incited or not called forth, typically referring to an action that occurs without any provocation.

Memory Tip

Think of something that happens 'not' ('un-') because it was 'called forth' ('provocare') — that's why unprovoked means it happened without any incitement.

Visually Confused Words