How Do You Spell UNFORTIFIED?

Pronunciation: [ʌnfˈɔːtɪfˌa͡ɪd] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "unfortified" is pretty straightforward when you use the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to break it down. The word is pronounced as [ənˈfɔrtəfaɪd], with the stress on the second syllable. In other words, it's pronounced "uhn-FOR-ti-fied." The "u" sound at the beginning is a schwa, which is a neutral vowel sound. The "f" and "t" sounds are pronounced clearly and distinctly, with the "i" sound being the second-to-last syllable. The word simply means something that hasn't been fortified or reinforced.

UNFORTIFIED Meaning and Definition

1. Unfortified is an adjective that describes something that lacks reinforcement or strengthening measures, especially in the context of physical structures or defenses. It refers to the absence of fortifications, which are structures or barriers designed to protect or defend an area against potential threats, such as enemy attacks.

   In the field of architecture and urban planning, unfortified typically indicates structures or settlements that have not been equipped with defensive structures like walls, strong gates, watchtowers, or moats. It signifies the vulnerability of such constructions or areas to potential intruders, whether human or natural.

   Similarly, in the military or strategic context, unfortified refers to an area or territory that is not fortified or does not have strong defense mechanisms in place. These regions might lack military installations, artillery positions, fortresses, or other fortified facilities that would enhance protection in times of conflict or war.

   Furthermore, the term unfortified can also be used metaphorically to describe a state or condition lacking necessary defenses or safeguards. For instance, it can depict a person's mental or emotional vulnerability when they are lacking strong support systems or coping mechanisms.

   In conclusion, unfortified denotes the absence of fortifications, whether in physical structures, territories, or metaphorical contexts, indicating a lack of reinforcement, protection, or defense mechanisms.

2. Not secured from attack by walls and defences; not guarded; defenceless.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for UNFORTIFIED

• unartified
• unraatified
• Unfortifyed
• Unforbided
• Unfortiefied
• Unfortoold

Etymology of UNFORTIFIED

The word "unfortified" is derived from the combination of the prefix "un-" and the adjective "fortified".

The prefix "un-" is a common negative prefix in English, indicating the absence or opposite of a particular quality or action. It derives from Old English "un-", which came from the Germanic language family.

The word "fortified" originates from the verb "fortify", which comes from the Old French word "fortifier". It entered English in the 14th century through the influence of Old French, which itself evolved from the Latin verb "fortificare". The Latin term comprises "fortis" (meaning "strong") and "facere" (meaning "to make").