Unsuspecting
/ˌʌnsəˈspɛktɪŋ/
Definitions
Not suspecting; not aware of something.
/ˌʌnsəˈspɛktɪŋ/
Not aware of a danger or problem; unaware.
He was an unsuspecting tourist, unaware of the dangers lurking in the city.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're walking down the street, enjoying your day, totally unaware that someone is about to surprise you with a birthday party. You are unsuspecting! It's like being in a movie and the hero has no idea about the villain's plan.
👶 For kids: When you don't know something is going to happen, like a surprise party! You're happy and not expecting anything special.
More Examples
The unsuspecting dog happily ate the poisoned meat.
The robbers targeted the unsuspecting bank customers.
The company was unaware of its unsuspecting employees' intentions.
How It's Used
"The unsuspecting victim opened the door to the stranger."
"The police surprised the unsuspecting criminals at their hideout."
"The author used the unsuspecting character to create a plot twist."
Idioms & expressions
take someone by surprise
To catch someone unaware; to unexpectedly attack or overcome.
"The enemy took the city by surprise."
From un- (not) + suspecting (present participle of suspect).
The word's usage is consistent with its modern meaning, originating in the 17th century.
Memory tip
Think of an UNSUSPECTING person as being un-expecting of anything bad happening.
Word Origin
"Not believing or trusting; being on guard."