UNEARNED Meaning and
Definition
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"Unearned" is an adjective that describes something that has not been obtained or achieved through merit, effort, or work. It refers to a situation where rewards, benefits, or advantages are received without deserving them or without meeting the necessary conditions for attaining them.
In the context of income or finances, "unearned" typically refers to money or assets that individuals receive without actively working for them or without engaging in productive activities. This can include income from investments, rental properties, or inheritance. Unearned income is often contrasted with earned income, which is derived from a person's labor or services.
In a broader sense, "unearned" can also apply to recognition, privileges, or opportunities that are obtained without merit or qualification. For instance, someone might gain unwarranted preferential treatment due to their social status or personal connections, rather than their own abilities or achievements.
The term is commonly used in discussions of social justice and fairness, highlighting the difference between earned and unearned advantages. Critiques of inequality often focus on the notion that some individuals in society benefit from unearned opportunities, while others are disadvantaged due to circumstances beyond their control.
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Not earned or obtained by labour or merit.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for UNEARNED
Etymology of UNEARNED
The word "unearned" is derived from the combination of two elements: "un-" and "earned".
1. "Un-" is a prefix in English that is used to indicate negation or reversal, meaning not or without. It comes from the Old English prefix "un-" or "on-" which had a similar negative connotation.
2. "Earned" is the past participle of the verb "earn". The term "earn" originates from the Old English word "earnian", meaning "deserve, earn, or acquire". This Old English term stems from the West Germanic word "izan", and is related to the Old Norse "ørn" and Old High German "ernon".
Similar spelling words for UNEARNED
- unironed,
- unwarranted,
- unhearing,
- unarmored,
- unrenewed,
- unwarmed,
- unremarked,
- unornate,
- unharness,
- unmourned,
- unrent,
- oneironaut,
- Inurned,
- unruined,
- Unarraigned,
- unwarned,
- inornata,
- Unruinate,
- Unreined,
- unremedied,
- unarmed,
- Enround,
- Unrein,
- unranked,
- unrenewable,
- unworn,
- unharmed,
- inherent,
- inerrant,
- inornate,
- Unhorned,
- unwariness,
- unround.
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