Unchecked
ʌnˈtʃɛkt
Definitions
2 meaningsNot restrained; free from control or limitation.
ʌnˈtʃɛkt
Not controlled or limited; unrestrained.
The unchecked spread of rumors can cause significant damage.
💡 Simply: Imagine your dog is running around the house wild and free without any leash or commands. That's like something being unchecked – it's allowed to go on without limits.
👶 For kids: When something is unchecked, it's like it can do whatever it wants without anyone stopping it.
More Examples
Unchecked ambition often leads to unethical behavior.
The government has to monitor and reduce unchecked spending.
How It's Used
"Unchecked inflation can erode the value of savings."
"Unchecked pollution leads to significant environmental damage."
Not having been examined or verified.
ʌnˈtʃɛkt
Not examined or verified.
Unchecked baggage may be subject to security screening.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a list of things to do, and you haven't crossed any of them off. Those are unchecked tasks – you haven't looked at them to make sure they're done or correct.
👶 For kids: When something is unchecked, it means no one has looked at it carefully to make sure it's okay.
More Examples
The unchecked email accounts are full of spam.
Unchecked facts can lead to wrong conclusions.
How It's Used
"Unchecked documents can lead to errors."
"The unchecked balances must be reviewed immediately."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From "un-" (not) + "checked" (restrained, controlled). The word's development mirrors the evolution of 'check' from its meaning of control or restraint.
Historically used to describe situations lacking control in various contexts, from personal behavior to financial systems.
Memory tip
Think of a race car with no brakes or a shopping spree with no budget - unchecked!
Word Origin
"to restrain, to curb; to investigate or verify"