Explanation
Something that's unassigned hasn't yet been distributed or matched up with anything else. If your train ticket doesn't list a particular seat, then the seats are unassigned and you can sit wherever you like. When you start a class, you’re usually given a syllabus listing assignments for at least the first few weeks. Readings for later in the semester may be unassigned, so the instructor can determine students' interests and make assignments accordingly. If you've just changed your hair, gotten new glasses, and become a stand-up comedian, you may want to change your email address to reflect the new you. If the address you want is unassigned, you shouldn't have any trouble getting it.
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.
Some employers are eliminating personal desks in favor of unassigned work stations that can be occupied as needed, allowing businesses to shrink their office footprints.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 21, 2024
According to Ochigava's indictment documents, members of the cabin crew noticed him on the plane because he was moving between multiple unassigned seats.
From BBC ● Jan. 27, 2024
The day Nassar was stabbed, 44 posts were left vacant and unassigned at the prison, records show.
From Seattle Times ● Jul. 11, 2023
Even students who rarely read unassigned books wanted to read it.
From Washington Post ● Aug. 22, 2022
On the bank of the Walnut, at this time, were stationed three hundred unassigned recruits of the Third Wisconsin Cavalry, under the command of Captain Conkey.
From The old Santa Fe trail The Story of a Great Highway by Buffalo Bill
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
