Unmade Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unmade

[ʌnˈmeɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

not completed

The term 'unmade' typically refers to something that has not been made or created, indicating an incomplete state. It can apply to physical objects, ideas, or projects that are still in the early stages of development. In literary contexts, it might also describe a work that is unfinished or an experience that has yet to materialize. The concept of being unmade evokes a sense of potential, highlighting what could exist or happen in the future.

Synonyms

incomplete, uncreated, unfinished.

Examples of usage

  • The unmade bed lay untouched.
  • She had an unmade plan for the weekend.
  • His novel remained unmade after years of writing.
  • The concept was exciting yet completely unmade.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, unmade often symbolizes chaos or potential, showing characters who are unfinished or still developing.
  • Writers like Virginia Woolf have explored themes of unmaking in terms of personal identity and societal roles.
  • Many fairy tales include the idea of something being unmade—like spells being broken or worlds being disrupted.

Psychology

  • The idea of being 'unmade' can also relate to feelings of vulnerability or insecurity, often in developmental psychology.
  • Therapeutically, the concept can be about deconstructing one's past experiences to build a new self-understanding.
  • Individuals may feel 'unmade' after a significant life change, like a breakup, impacting their sense of identity.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'unmade' has been used in songs and movies to depict relationship breakups or personal crises.
  • In a popular animated show, a character described feeling unmade after losing their magic, emphasizing emotional struggle.
  • Artisanal movements have embraced 'unmade' concepts, celebrating the beauty of unfinished and raw creations.

Philosophy

  • Philosophically, unmaking can represent the process of deconstructing established norms and beliefs.
  • Existentialists might explore what it means to be 'unmade' in terms of personal freedom and choice.
  • Unmaking suggests a return to potentiality, where everything is open to change and transformation.

Origin of 'unmade'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Unmade' combines the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', with 'made', which is the past tense of 'make'.
  • The word 'make' goes back to Old English 'macian', which means to create or form.
  • The concept of 'unmaking' can apply to things being taken apart or undone.

The word 'unmade' is formed from the prefix 'un-', which denotes negation or the opposite of something, and the past participle 'made', from the verb 'make'. This construction effectively conveys the meaning of something that has not been completed or created. 'Make' itself has roots in Old English 'macian', which means to cause to happen or to produce. Over time, the combination of 'un-' and 'made' has been used in various contexts to describe not only physical objects, such as a bed that has not been arranged or a meal that has not been prepared, but also abstract concepts, including plans or works of art that exist only as ideas or drafts. The progression of its use highlights changes in perception of unfinished states, emphasizing creativity and potential rather than mere absence.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,101, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.