Correct spelling for the English word "un wed" is [ˈʌn wˈɛd], [ˈʌn wˈɛd], [ˈʌ_n w_ˈɛ_d] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
"Unwed" is an adjective that describes an individual who is not married, particularly in the context of being of marriageable age, or having reached an age where marriage is typically expected or common. The term primarily refers to someone who has never been married before, and is often associated with someone who remains single or unmarried by choice, or due to certain circumstances or personal preferences.
The concept of being "unwed" implies a state of not being bound by the legal commitment of marriage. It emphasizes the absence of a spouse or a marital relationship, and may be used to distinguish between individuals who are married and those who are not. It is important to note that the term does not carry any judgment or negativity towards those who are unmarried, but simply denotes their marital status.
Societies may have varying expectations and attitudes towards individuals who are unwed, influenced by cultural, religious, or societal factors. While marriage is considered a traditional and commonly practiced institution in many cultures, the choice to remain unwed is increasingly respected and accepted in modern times.
Overall, "unwed" is a concise term employed to describe someone who has not entered into the covenant of marriage, and it signifies an individual's current status in relation to the marital institution.
The word "unwed" comes from the combination of the prefix "un-" meaning "not" or "opposite of" and the word "wed", which is a shortened form of "wedded". The term "wedded" is the past participle of the verb "to wed", which was derived from the Old English word "weddian", meaning "to pledge or covenant to marry". Therefore, "unwed" signifies someone who is not married or has not entered into wedlock.