Unescorted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unescorted

[ʌnɪsˈkɔːtɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

travel

Not accompanied by anyone, especially when traveling.

Synonyms

alone, unaccompanied, unguarded.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unescorted

Typically used in formal or security-related contexts to describe someone without a guide or guard.

  • The diplomat walked through the airport unescorted.
  • The prisoner was not allowed to move around the facility unescorted.
alone

Commonly used in everyday language to describe someone by themselves, often emphasizing either solitude or independence.

  • She enjoys spending her weekends alone with a good book.
  • He felt alone in the crowded room.
unguarded

Generally used in security or safety contexts to indicate someone or something without protection or surveillance, sometimes with a negative connotation related to vulnerability.

  • The entrance to the building was left unguarded.
  • He made an unguarded remark that he later regretted.
unaccompanied

Used in both formal and casual contexts to indicate someone or something without a companion or assistance, often neutral in tone.

  • The unaccompanied minor was guided by airline staff.
  • Unaccompanied luggage should not be left unattended.

Examples of usage

  • She felt unsafe walking unescorted at night.
  • The children were not allowed to travel unescorted.
  • I always prefer to travel with a companion rather than unescorted.
Context #2 | Adjective

military

Not accompanied by an armed guard or escort.

Synonyms

unguarded, unprotected.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unescorted

Often used in a more specific context where someone is moving or traveling alone, potentially in situations perceived as risky or requiring a guide or protection.

  • He was not allowed to visit the area unescorted.
  • The VIP guests will never be unescorted.
unguarded

Typically used to describe someone or something that is not being watched or protected, which may imply vulnerability or lack of security.

  • The building was left unguarded overnight.
  • His unguarded expression revealed his true feelings.
unprotected

Refers to someone or something that is not safeguarded or shielded from harm or attack, often indicating exposure to potential danger.

  • The data was left unprotected on the server.
  • She felt unprotected walking in the dark alley.

Examples of usage

  • The prisoners were being transported unescorted.
  • The unescorted convoy was vulnerable to attacks from enemy aircraft.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Social Dynamics

  • Being unescorted in social situations can lead to feelings of independence but also vulnerability.
  • In some contexts, being unescorted might imply a status of being single or seeking companionship.
  • Certain cultures may view being unescorted as a potential risk, especially for individuals considered more vulnerable.

Safety and Security

  • In various public venues, individuals unescorted may be subjected to additional scrutiny for safety reasons.
  • Security protocols often dictate that vulnerable areas require individuals to be escorted, especially women or children.
  • The concept of being unescorted raises discussions about personal safety and empowerment in society.

Literature and Media

  • Unescorted characters often symbolize freedom and the challenges of facing the world alone in novels and films.
  • Themes of isolation and self-discovery frequently center around unescorted journeys in storytelling.
  • Classic literature often portrays heroism in characters who must journey unescorted to achieve their quests.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Historically, unescorted women faced social stigmas and safety concerns, influencing cultural norms.
  • Modern movements increasingly support women traveling unescorted as a statement of empowerment.
  • In many cultures, being unescorted is a personal choice, embodying independence and self-sufficiency.

Origin of 'unescorted'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'escorted,' which comes from the French word 'escorte,' meaning 'to escort.'
  • The term 'escort' originally referred to a group of people accompanying someone for protection or guidance.
  • Etymologically, becoming 'unescorted' reflects a shift from safety in numbers to independence.

The word 'unescorted' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the past participle of the verb 'escort'. It first appeared in the early 19th century, primarily in the context of travel and military operations. The concept of being unaccompanied or unprotected has been a significant aspect of human history, reflecting the vulnerability or independence of individuals in various situations.


See also: escort, escorted.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,916 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.