Definition

Not having a known source or origin.

Example

The information in the report was unsourced, making it difficult to verify its accuracy.

Conversation

Did you read that article about the new study on social media?

No, I haven't seen it yet. Was it interesting?

Yeah, but some of the data seemed unsourced, which worries me.

That's a red flag for sure; I prefer articles that cite their sources.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unsourced → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "sourced" (from the verb "source", which comes from Old French *sourcer*, meaning to obtain or derive). The word "unsourced" means not obtained from a specific source or lacking a source.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having a 'source' — that's why unsourced means something that does not have a specific origin.

Visually Confused Words