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Unread: meaning, definitions and examples

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unread

 

[ ʌnˈrɛd ]

Adjective
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.

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

Etymology

The word 'unread' derives from the prefix 'un-', which indicates negation, combined with the past participle of the verb 'read'. First appearing in the English language around the late 17th century, 'unread' encapsulates the notion of excluding something from the act of reading. The evolution of this term is closely tied to the development of written communication, especially with the advent of print media in the 15th century. As literacy rates increased, so too did the volume of written text available, leading to the need for a term that describes materials that have yet to be engaged with. In the era of digital communication, the term has taken on a new dimension, especially within email and messaging platforms where unread notifications have become integral to user experience. The concept has also prompted discussions around information overload, as individuals often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer volume of unread material in their daily lives.

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.