adjective
-
not deserved
-
not yet earned
Etymology
Origin of unearned
Middle English word dating back to 1150–1200; see origin at un- 1, earn 1, -ed 2
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.
To be sure, there are pitfalls to plan for like the “kiddie tax,” whereby unearned income above a certain amount is taxed at the parents’ rate.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 14, 2026
Even though the Bobcats’ shaky defense spotted USC two unearned runs, the Trojans will surely lament stranding runners in scoring position in each of the first seven innings.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 30, 2026
By buying a flat in London in 1988, I've arguably enjoyed an unearned advantage.
From BBC ● May 17, 2026
But every once in a while, we get a little wink, an ounce of good luck, an unearned gift, a happy accident, and this recipe falls in that category.
From Salon ● Apr. 13, 2026
Cancer Perks are the little things cancer kids get that regular kids don’t: basketballs signed by sports heroes, free passes on late homework, unearned driver’s licenses, etc.
From "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green
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.
