unconditional
Americanadjective
-
not limited by conditions; absolute.
an unconditional promise.
- Synonyms:
- categorical, unqualified, unreserved
-
Mathematics. absolute.
adjective
-
without conditions or limitations; total
unconditional surrender
-
maths (of an equality) true for all values of the variable
(x+1)>x is an unconditional equality
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of unconditional
First recorded in 1660–70; un- 1 + conditional
Explanation
Whether it’s love, support, or surrender, if something’s unconditional it’s absolute and not subject to any special terms or conditions: it’ll happen no matter what else happens. Breaking apart the word unconditional can help you remember its meaning. Combine the prefix un-, meaning “not,” with conditional, meaning "dependent on something else," and you get an adjective for something that holds true without any conditions attached. The unconditional forgiveness you promised your brother means you forgive him no matter what. You’re not attaching any requirements — like you’ll only forgive him if he’s nicer to you or pays you money. You just forgive him — it's absolute.
Vocabulary lists containing unconditional
Tuesdays with Morrie
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Code Talker
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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.
He was freed on unconditional bail until a hearing at Southwark Crown Court on 29 October.
From BBC ● Oct. 1, 2026
They further demanded Kenya "use all available diplomatic and legal channels to secure Dr Besigye's unconditional release and withdrawal of the charges against him".
From Barron's ● Sep. 1, 2026
Here, Bree experiences heartbreak, isolation, bewilderment, unconditional affection, joy, anger, frustration, regret and contentment.
From Salon ● Aug. 28, 2026
I’ve learned that, especially as an artist, you have to be your own protector, own advocate, and give yourself unconditional love to be able to tap into what makes your art your own.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 18, 2026
Visiting Memphis accompanied by her powerful protector would earn Cleopatra the unconditional respect and loyalty of all Egyptians.Cleopatra and Caesar’s journey also had religious significance for the Egyptians.
From "Sterling Biographies®: Cleopatra: Egypt's Last and Greatest Queen" by Susan Blackaby
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Get a wordDefinitions 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.
