Definition

Describing skin or leather that has not been exposed to sunlight or tanning processes, resulting in a lighter color.

Example

Her untanned skin was a stark contrast to the sun-kissed glow of her friends.

Conversation

Have you noticed how untanned my arms are compared to my legs?

Yeah, it really stands out! Did you forget to apply sunscreen?

I guess I did, but I was trying to avoid getting too untanned overall.

Next time, just use a little on your arms too, so it evens out!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Untanned → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "tanned" (from Old English "tanian", meaning to make leather from animal hides). The word "untanned" refers to something that has not been treated or made into leather.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being applied to the process of making leather ('tan'), so 'untanned' means something that has not undergone that process.

Visually Confused Words