Definition

Not aware of something; not knowing or intentional about it.

Example

She was an unwitting participant in the study, unaware of the true purpose of the experiment.

Conversation

Did you hear about the prank they pulled on Mark?

Yeah, it was hilarious! He was so unwitting about it all.

Right? I can't believe he didn't see it coming.

Exactly! He was just an unwitting participant in their joke.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unwitting → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "witting" (from Old English "witan", meaning to know). The word "unwitting" means not knowing or unaware of something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not knowing' ('un-') something that you should be aware of — that's what unwitting means.

Visually Confused Words