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Unarmed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unarmed

[ˈʌnˈɑːmd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

military

Not carrying weapons; not armed.

Synonyms

defenseless, disarmed, weaponless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unarmed

This term is generally used to describe a person or group who do not have weapons. It is neutral and often applied in situations like security checks, protests, or any setting where the absence of weapons is notable.

  • The security personnel checked to ensure that all attendees were unarmed
  • The unarmed protestors marched peacefully
weaponless

Similar to 'unarmed,' 'weaponless' emphasizes the absence of weapons. It's more informal and might be used in creative writing or casual conversation rather than official reports.

  • In the fantasy novel, the hero stood weaponless against the dragon
  • The knight found himself weaponless after the battle
defenseless

This word is appropriate when highlighting the vulnerability or inability to protect oneself. It has a more emotional or negative connotation and is used to describe someone who is exposed to danger without any means of protection.

  • The defenseless child stood alone in the dark alley
  • The village was left defenseless after the soldiers left
disarmed

This term implies that someone who previously had weapons has had them taken away. It often has a context related to conflict, law enforcement, or military settings, and suggests a change from being armed to unarmed.

  • The officer successfully disarmed the suspect
  • After the peace agreement, the rebels were disarmed

Examples of usage

  • He was captured by enemy soldiers while unarmed.
  • The civilians were defenseless and unarmed against the invading army.
Context #2 | Adjective

legal

Not having a weapon or firearms; not possessing arms.

Synonyms

defenseless, disarmed, weaponless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unarmed

When describing someone who doesn't have any weapons or means of attack but not necessarily in immediate danger.

  • The guards were unarmed during the peace negotiations
  • The hikers were unarmed but felt safe in the national park
weaponless

When referring to someone who specifically lacks weapons, often used in a more dramatic or literary sense.

  • The knight stood weaponless before the dragon
  • Weaponless, the hero had to rely on his wits to survive
disarmed

When talking about someone who has been stripped of their weapons, usually after having been armed.

  • The soldiers were disarmed after they surrendered
  • The security guard disarmed the intruder before calling the police
defenseless

When describing someone who is completely unable to protect themselves, often in a vulnerable or dangerous situation.

  • The kittens were defenseless against the stray dog
  • The small village was defenseless after the storm destroyed their homes

Examples of usage

  • The suspect was arrested while unarmed.
  • The law prohibits carrying firearms while unarmed.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'unarmed'

The word 'unarmed' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'armed' which comes from the Old French word 'armes' meaning 'weapons'. The term has been used in various contexts throughout history, especially in military and legal settings.

See also: arm, armband, armed, armlet, armlets, armor, armory, armour, armoury, arms, army, disarm, disarmed, unarm.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,992, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.