Definition

Not educated or trained in a formal way; lacking formal schooling or instruction.

Example

Despite being unschooled, she had a natural talent for painting that impressed everyone.

Conversation

I met someone today who is really talented at painting.

Oh, that's cool! Is she formally trained?

Actually, she’s quite unschooled but her art is amazing.

That's impressive! Sometimes natural talent shines brighter than formal education.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unschooled → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "schooled" (from Old English "scolian", meaning to educate or teach). The word "unschooled" means not educated or lacking formal schooling.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'educated' ('schooled') — that's why unschooled means lacking education.

Visually Confused Words