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.
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
The Social Security Administration considers free shelter to be unearned income, although he can avoid this reduction if he pays his fair share of household expenses.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 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
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
He gave me an unearned high five when the coach finally blew the whistle ending class.
From "Twilight" by Stephenie Meyer
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.
