The word "unknown" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ənˈnoʊn/ or /ʌnˈnoʊn/. The first syllable is pronounced with the schwa sound /ə/ or the short u sound /ʌ/ and the second syllable is pronounced with the long o sound /oʊ/. The word means not known or familiar and is often used to describe something that is mysterious or unclear. Correct spelling of this word is important in written communication to ensure clear and accurate understanding.
Unknown is an adjective that refers to something that is not known, recognized, or identified. It represents a lack of knowledge or familiarity about a particular subject, object, or person. It implies a state of being unfamiliar, unexplored, or uncharted, suggesting that information or understanding about it is yet to be obtained.
In the realm of knowledge, the term unknown signifies the absence of awareness or comprehension regarding a specific concept, fact, or detail. It denotes a lack of clarity, obscurity, or uncertainty about something, highlighting the need for further investigation, exploration, or research to unravel its true nature or properties. In addition, the term unknown can also refer to an individual or entity whose identity remains concealed, not disclosed, or undisclosed, which may arise from intentional efforts to maintain privacy or secrecy.
In various contexts, the unknown can be both mysterious and intriguing, evoking curiosity and a desire to uncover the truth. It often serves as a catalyst for intellectual pursuits, scientific investigations, or artistic expressions, as people strive to uncover answers or shed light on uncharted territories. Moreover, in the realm of exploration or discovery, the unknown represents unexplored territories, uncharted waters, or unfamiliar regions, symbolizing the vastness of the world yet to be understood or comprehended.
Not understood clearly; doubtful; not recognised by remembrance; greater than is imagined.
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 "unknown" has its origins in Old English. It is derived from the combination of two words: "un-" and "cnawan".
The prefix "un-" is a negation or a denial, indicating the absence or contrary of something. In this case, it signifies lack or absence of knowledge or familiarity.
The second part, "cnawan", means "to know" or "to understand" in Old English. This word has Germanic roots and is related to the German verb "kennen" and the Dutch verb "kennen".
When these two components are combined, "un-" and "cnawan", they form the word "unknown", which is commonly used to describe something that is not known, recognized, understood, or familiar.