Undefended: meaning, definitions and examples

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undefended

 

[ ˌʌndɪˈfɛndɪd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

lacking protection

The term 'undefended' refers to a state of being unprotected or exposed to potential harm or attack. It is often used in military contexts to describe positions or areas that do not have any defensive measures in place. In larger contexts, it can denote vulnerability in situations where support or safeguard is expected. An undefended area may be susceptible to various threats, making it an important consideration in strategic planning.

Synonyms

exposed, open, unprotected, vulnerable

Examples of usage

  • The fortress stood undefended during the siege.
  • An undefended border can lead to security risks.
  • The village was left undefended against the invading forces.

Translations

Translations of the word "undefended" in other languages:

🇵🇹 indefeso

🇮🇳 असुरक्षित

🇩🇪 unverteidigt

🇮🇩 tidak tergadaikan

🇺🇦 незахищений

🇵🇱 niebroniony

🇯🇵 無防備な

🇫🇷 non défendu

🇪🇸 indefenso

🇹🇷 savunmasız

🇰🇷 방어되지 않은

🇸🇦 غير محمي

🇨🇿 nechráněný

🇸🇰 nebránený

🇨🇳 未防护的

🇸🇮 neobramben

🇮🇸 óvörður

🇰🇿 қорғалмаған

🇬🇪 არადამცველი

🇦🇿 qorunmamış

🇲🇽 indefenso

Etymology

The word 'undefended' is a compound word formed from the prefix 'un-', which indicates negation, and the word 'defended.' The root 'defend' comes from the Latin word 'defendere,' which means to ward off, protect, or guard. The combination reflects a condition of having neither barriers nor assurances against harm or attack. The usage of 'undefended' has evolved over centuries, gaining relevance in both military and everyday contexts. It highlights scenarios of risk, particularly where protection is expected or necessary. The construction of such terms is common in English, illustrating how language adapts to express complex ideas succinctly.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,046, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.