Unwed: meaning, definitions and examples

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unwed

 

[ ʌnˈwɛd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

single

Not married or in a marriage-like relationship.

Synonyms

celibate, single, unmarried.

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Word Description / Examples
unwed

This word is often used to describe someone who is not married and might have a slightly negative or old-fashioned connotation. It can be used in legal or official situations.

  • The unwed mother faced societal scrutiny.
  • Statistics show an increase in unwed couples.
single

This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to refer to someone who is not in a romantic relationship or marriage. It does not carry any negative connotations.

  • She is single and enjoying her independence.
  • He's been single since his last relationship ended.
unmarried

This term is neutral and generally used to describe someone who has never been married, or is not currently married, in a more formal or official context.

  • The legislation affects unmarried couples.
  • He remained unmarried throughout his life.
celibate

This word is used to describe someone who has taken a vow to abstain from marriage and sexual relations, often for religious or personal reasons.

  • He decided to stay celibate for religious purposes.
  • Monks and nuns often take vows to remain celibate.

Examples of usage

  • He remained unwed throughout his life.
  • She was determined to remain unwed and focus on her career.
  • Many unwed mothers face challenges raising their children alone.

Translations

Translations of the word "unwed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não casado

🇮🇳 अविवाहित

🇩🇪 unverheiratet

🇮🇩 belum menikah

🇺🇦 незаміжня

🇵🇱 niezamężna

🇯🇵 未婚 (みこん)

🇫🇷 non marié(e)

🇪🇸 no casado

🇹🇷 evlenmemiş

🇰🇷 결혼하지 않은

🇸🇦 غير متزوج

🇨🇿 svobodný

🇸🇰 nezosobášený

🇨🇳 未婚 (wèihūn)

🇸🇮 neporočen

🇮🇸 ókvæntur

🇰🇿 үйленбеген

🇬🇪 დაუქორწინებელი

🇦🇿 evlənməmiş

🇲🇽 no casado

Etymology

The word 'unwed' dates back to the 14th century and comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'wed' meaning 'married'. It has been used throughout history to describe individuals who are not married or in a marriage-like relationship.

See also: wed, wedded, wedding, wedlock.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,596, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.