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Unread: meaning, definitions and examples

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unread

 

[ʌnˈrɛd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

not read

The term 'unread' refers to material, typically written or printed text, that has not yet been read by an individual. This can apply to various forms of correspondence, such as emails, messages, books, or articles. The concept of unread items is common in digital communication where notifications indicate unread messages or documents. Keeping track of unread items helps users prioritize their reading and communication. It signifies the need to revisit or address certain content.

Synonyms

unexplored, unopened, untouched.

Examples of usage

  • I have five unread emails in my inbox.
  • The novel has been sitting on my shelf, unread for months.
  • Her unread messages were piling up.
  • Don't forget to check your unread notifications on the app.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'unread' combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'read', which comes from Old English 'rædan', meaning 'to advise or interpret'.
  • In English, 'read' was pronounced like 'reed' in the past, leading to a unique evolution in the way we understand its opposite.
  • The first recorded use of the term 'unread' appeared in the 18th century, reflecting the growing complexity of literature.

Literature

  • In literary discussions, 'unread' often signifies works that are crucial yet overlooked, representing knowledge that remains untapped.
  • Famous authors have often lamented the vast number of unread books, emphasizing the challenge of time in consuming literature.
  • The concept of unread books can evoke feelings of guilt among readers, sometimes referred to as TBR (To Be Read) piles.

Technology

  • Email applications often use the term 'unread' to indicate messages that haven’t been opened, shaping modern communication habits.
  • Many online reading platforms track unread articles or books, which can lead to 'digital clutter' similar to physical piles of books.
  • The rise of e-books introduced features like 'unread tags' to help users manage their reading lists effectively.

Psychology

  • The concept of unread materials can lead to anxiety or stress in individuals, known as the 'unread book syndrome'.
  • People often feel pressured to read unread items to keep up with societal expectations of knowledge and literacy.
  • The psychology behind unread material touches on themes of procrastination and prioritization in our busy lives.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'unread' is frequently referenced in memes and discussions about the overwhelming number of books people own but haven't read.
  • Authors and influencers sometimes share humorous takes on their unread collections, sparking conversations about reading habits.
  • Popular shows and movies often depict characters with piles of unread books as a symbol of their busy lives or aspirations to be well-read.

Translations

Translations of the word "unread" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não lido

🇮🇳 अविज्ञात

🇩🇪 ungelesen

🇮🇩 belum dibaca

🇺🇦 недочитаний

🇵🇱 nieprzeczytany

🇯🇵 未読

🇫🇷 non lu

🇪🇸 no leído

🇹🇷 okunmamış

🇰🇷 읽지 않음

🇸🇦 غير مقروء

🇨🇿 nepřečtený

🇸🇰 neprečítaný

🇨🇳 未读

🇸🇮 neprebrano

🇮🇸 ólesið

🇰🇿 оқылмаған

🇬🇪 არაწაკითხული

🇦🇿 oxunmamış

🇲🇽 no leído

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,350, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.