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Unfledged Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unfledged

[ʌnˈflɛdʒd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

immature state

Unfledged refers to a young bird that has not yet acquired its feathers for flying. This term can also describe someone or something that is inexperienced or not fully developed.

Synonyms

immature, inexperienced, raw, undeveloped.

Examples of usage

  • The unfledged chicks remained in the nest, awaiting their first flight.
  • His unfledged skills in negotiation led to a few mistakes during the meeting.
  • An unfledged artist may struggle to find their unique style.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In poetry and storytelling, characters described as 'unfledged' often symbolize innocence or the potential for growth.
  • Shakespeare occasionally portrayed youthful characters as 'unfledged' to emphasize their naiveté and upcoming challenges.
  • Modern authors use the term to convey the idea that characters are still on their journey of self-discovery before tackling life's trials.

Psychology

  • In development psychology, 'unfledged' can refer to individuals who are still forming their identities and skills during adolescence.
  • The term is often associated with concepts of growth and maturation, highlighting how experiences shape capabilities over time.
  • Youth programs often target 'unfledged' individuals, providing mentorship for skill development and confidence-building.

Pop Culture

  • In films, younger characters who are 'unfledged' often provide comic relief or enhance the mentor-mentee dynamic.
  • The coming-of-age genre frequently showcases 'unfledged' protagonists who transition from naiveté to deeper understanding.
  • In video games, players may begin as 'unfledged' heroes, gradually gaining skills and abilities as they progress.

Nature

  • Birds are considered 'unfledged' until they develop enough feathers and strength to leave the nest, which can vary by species.
  • The care period for 'unfledged' birds can trigger significant behavioral changes, helping them learn survival skills essential for adulthood.
  • Conservationists monitor 'unfledged' birds to understand population dynamics and ensure they receive adequate protection until they can fend for themselves.

Origin of 'unfledged'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'un-' meaning not and 'fledged,' which comes from 'fledge,' referring to feathers that allow a baby bird to fly.
  • First recorded in the early 19th century, 'unfledged' was used to describe young birds, extending metaphorically to people or ideas.
  • The 'fledge' part of the word can be traced back to Old English, showing the long-standing relationship of this term with growth and maturity.

The word 'unfledged' is derived from the prefix 'un-', which indicates negation or absence, and 'fledged', which originates from the Old English word 'fledgian', meaning to acquire feathers or to fly. 'Fledged' itself is connected to the word 'fledge', which can be traced back to the 15th century, referring to a young bird that has developed the feathers necessary for flight. The combination of 'un-' and 'fledged' highlights the state of not being ready for flight both literally and metaphorically, emphasizing immaturity or lack of experience. This term has evolved over time to be applied not only to young birds but also to young humans or other entities that lack development or readiness.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,643, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.