Definition

Not officially approved or authorized by a governing body or authority.

Example

The unsanctioned event drew a large crowd despite the lack of official support.

Conversation

Did you hear about that unsanctioned street race last night?

Yeah, I saw some videos online! It looked wild.

I can't believe people would risk it like that for an unsanctioned event.

Right? It’s just not worth the trouble if they get caught.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unsanctioned → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "sanction" (from Latin "sanctio", meaning a decree or approval). The word "unsanctioned" means not approved or not authorized.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having the opposite of 'approval' ('sanction') — that's why unsanctioned means something that is not approved.

Visually Confused Words