Pronunciation: [ʌnkˈɒnʃəs] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "unconscious" can be a bit tricky. It's pronounced /ʌnˈkɒn.ʃəs/, with the stress on the second syllable. The letters "sc" can be difficult for some to remember, as they make the "sh" sound in this word. Also, the "ous" ending is often pronounced as "us" in other words, but is pronounced "uhsh" in "unconscious". With practice, however, the spelling and pronunciation will become easier to remember.
The term "unconscious" refers to a state of mental existence or activity that occurs outside of one's awareness or conscious perception. It is an adjective used to describe thoughts, processes, emotions, or behaviors that take place beneath the surface of conscious thought.
Within the realm of psychology, the unconscious mind encompasses all mental processes and content that are not immediately accessible to conscious awareness. This includes repressed memories, instincts, desires, and motivations that exert influence over one's thoughts and actions, despite being outside of conscious awareness. Psychoanalytic theory, developed by Sigmund Freud, places great emphasis on the impact of the unconscious mind on human behavior.
In addition to its psychological context, the term "unconscious" can also refer to a physical state in which a person lacks awareness or responsiveness to external stimuli. This typically occurs during sleep, anesthesia, or situations involving loss of consciousness due to injury or illness.
The concept of the unconscious extends beyond psychology and medicine and has found application in various fields such as art, literature, and philosophy. Artists often contend that the unconscious mind holds profound creative potential, while scholars explore its implications on human behavior and perception.
Overall, "unconscious" describes a state or aspect of existence that lies beyond conscious awareness, playing a significant role in influencing human cognition and behaviors.
Not conscious, insensible.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Having no mental perception; not knowing.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word unconscious originated from the Latin word in meaning not and conscious meaning being aware, knowing. The Latin word unconscious itself was derived from the Latin words un- meaning not and conscius meaning knowing, aware.
