Definition

Not having a permanent position, especially in an academic job.

Example

The untenured professor worked hard to publish research and secure a permanent position.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new untenured professor in our department?

Yeah, I heard they just joined this semester.

I wonder how long it will take for them to get tenure.

Hopefully, they can impress everyone and make it soon!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Untenured → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "tenured" (from Latin "tenere", meaning to hold). The word "untenured" means not holding a permanent position, especially in an academic context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') holding a permanent position ('tenured') — that's what untenured means.

Visually Confused Words