unarmed

American  

[uhn-ahrmd] / ʌnˈɑrmd /

adjective

1. without weapons or armor.

2. not having claws, thorns, scales, etc., as animals or plants.

3. (of an artillery shell) not armed.

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unarmed British  

/ ʌnˈɑːmd /

adjective

1. without weapons

2. (of animals and plants) having no claws, prickles, spines, thorns, or similar structures

3. of or relating to a projectile that does not use a detonator to initiate explosive action

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Etymology

Origin of unarmed

A Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; un- ¹, armed ²

Example Sentences

At Mexico’s request, the CIA positioned an unarmed Predator drone over a Tapalpa vacation compound, where it observed a man exit a vehicle and warmly embrace Oseguera’s lover, according to people familiar with the operation.

From The Wall Street Journal

We also know that unarmed dissidents who have been willing to protest one of the world’s most brutal governments do not lack for courage.

From The Wall Street Journal

A former Whittier police officer reached a plea agreement with prosecutors, ending a criminal case that stemmed from a 2020 shooting that left an unarmed man paralyzed, officials said.

From Los Angeles Times

But it’s unlikely that mostly unarmed protesters will triumph in a confrontation against enforcers from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or its volunteer wing, the Basij.

From Los Angeles Times

Neither the communities nor Yatacue's guard can rely on the large-scale intervention of the state, only a few unarmed state bodyguards accompany them.

From Barron's

Related Words

• helpless
• powerless