Unsullied: meaning, definitions and examples

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unsullied

 

[ʌnˈsʌl.iːd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

pure

Not spoiled, corrupted, or tainted; pure and untarnished.

Synonyms

clean, pure, spotless, untarnished.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unsullied

Usually refers to something that is in a pristine state or free from moral corruption.

  • Her reputation remained unsullied despite the scandal
  • The untouched wilderness was unsullied by human activity
pure

Indicates something that is uncontaminated or unadulterated, often used in contexts involving substances, ethics, or emotions.

  • We drank pure water from the mountain stream
  • Her motives were pure and altruistic
untarnished

Typically used to convey that something is free from blemishes, stains, or damage, often used metaphorically regarding reputation or integrity.

  • His untarnished career in public service earned him great respect
  • The medal remained untarnished despite its age
spotless

Describes something that is immaculately clean, with no spots or stains.

  • The hotel room was spotless when we checked in
  • Her white dress was spotless even after the long event
clean

Generally used to describe something free from dirt, stains, or impurities in a physical or metaphorical sense.

  • The kitchen was clean after hours of scrubbing
  • He has a clean record with no criminal history

Examples of usage

  • Her unsullied reputation preceded her wherever she went.
  • The unsullied beauty of the countryside took my breath away.
Context #2 | Noun

soldiers

Unsullied is also the name of a group of elite soldiers in the fictional world of Game of Thrones.

Synonyms

elite soldiers, fighters, warriors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unsullied

This word is best used to describe individuals or objects that remain pure and untarnished, either morally or physically.

  • His reputation as an unsullied judge drew respect from all sections of society.
  • The ancient manuscript was discovered in an unsullied condition, pristine and untouched.
elite soldiers

Use this phrase when referring to a high-ranking group of soldiers known for their superior skills, training, and performance.

  • Elite soldiers were deployed for the most critical missions due to their exceptional capabilities.
  • The elite soldiers' training regimen includes some of the toughest survival scenarios.
warriors

Utilize 'warriors' to talk about individuals, especially from historical or indigenous backgrounds, known for their courage and combat skills.

  • The ancient warriors of Sparta were renowned for their fearlessness and discipline.
  • The tribal warriors adorned themselves with traditional war paint before the battle.
fighters

This word is versatile and can be used to describe individuals who engage in combat or struggle for a cause, not necessarily professional soldiers.

  • The fighters in the local militia bravely defended their village.
  • Street fighters often have their own code of honor and respect.

Examples of usage

  • The Unsullied soldiers are known for their impeccable discipline and loyalty.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the prefix 'un-', meaning not, and 'sully,' which means to tarnish or dirty.
  • Its origins can be traced back to the Old French word 'sullier,' which meant to soil or stain.
  • The term has been in use since the 15th century, emphasizing purity and cleanliness.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's works, references to purity and unsullied characters often highlight virtue and honor.
  • The concept of unsullied is famously represented in literature as a metaphor for childhood innocence or untainted love.
  • In fantasy series like 'A Song of Ice and Fire,' the term describes a group of warriors who maintain a strict code of honor.

Psychology

  • The sense of being unsullied can relate to personal identity and how people perceive their moral purity.
  • Psychological studies suggest that individuals strive to maintain an 'unsullied' image to feel good about themselves.
  • In therapeutic settings, discussions about feeling sullied or unsullied can highlight issues related to guilt or self-acceptance.

Cultural Insights

  • In certain cultures, the notion of purity is closely tied to religious practices, like maintaining an unsullied status before rituals.
  • The idea of being unsullied often appears in discussions around virginity, modesty, and cultural honor.
  • Many societies hold up figures who are described as unsullied as role models, enhancing their reputation and influence.

Pop Culture

  • In the TV series 'Game of Thrones,' a character is often referred to as unsullied, denoting their disciplined and pure nature.
  • The term can also be found in various songs and poems where authors often seek to evocate feelings of innocence or untouched beauty.
  • Unsullied characters in movies often symbolize hope and resilience, representing triumph over challenges.

Translations

Translations of the word "unsullied" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imaculado

🇮🇳 निर्मल

🇩🇪 makellos

🇮🇩 tak tercemar

🇺🇦 незаплямований

🇵🇱 nieskalany

🇯🇵 汚れていない

🇫🇷 immaculé

🇪🇸 inmaculado

🇹🇷 lekesiz

🇰🇷 흠 없는

🇸🇦 نقي

🇨🇿 neposkvrněný

🇸🇰 nepoškvrnený

🇨🇳 无瑕

🇸🇮 neomadeževan

🇮🇸 óflekkóttur

🇰🇿 мүлтіксіз

🇬🇪 უწმინდური

🇦🇿 ləkəsiz

🇲🇽 inmaculado

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,558, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.