unearned

[uhn-urnd] / ʌnˈɜrnd /

ADJECTIVE

undeserved

Synonyms

WEAK

not deserved not earned not merited not warranted unmerited unwarranted

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Yet Mr. Corinth and Ms. Mayhew did find that the larger and more credible studies—such as the one Mr. Altman backed—showed that unearned income has a negative impact on a person’s willingness to work.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

Ryan got a taste of the majors in July 2024, making his debut against the San Francisco Giants with 5 ⅓ innings and allowing an unearned run.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 18, 2026

Imposters like Jonathan Carley, who was fined £500 for dressing as a rear admiral without permission, complete with an array of impressive but unearned medals he bought online.

From BBC • Jan. 21, 2026

By September 2025, Booker announced their engagement on Instagram, calling her “one of the greatest unearned blessings of my life.”

From Salon • Nov. 30, 2025

He gave me an unearned high five when the coach finally blew the whistle ending class.

From "Twilight" by Stephenie Meyer