Pronunciation: [ʌnsəpˈɔːtɪd] (IPA) 
The word "unsupported" is spelled with a prefix "un" which means "not" and the root word "supported". The stress is on the second syllable "sup" which is pronounced as /səˈpɔːrtɪd/. The "p" in the root word "supported" changes to "pp" when the prefix "un" is added to it. The vowel sound in the second syllable "u" is pronounced as /ʌ/. The word means something that lacks support or is not backed up by evidence or proof.
Unsupported is an adjective that refers to something lacking support, reinforcement, or assistance. It describes a situation or object that does not have the necessary backing or reinforcement to maintain stability, strength, or integrity. This term can apply to both physical and abstract concepts.
In a physical sense, unsupported often relates to structures or objects that do not have sufficient reinforcement or assistance to bear weight or maintain stability. It suggests a lack of underlying or external support, making the object prone to collapse or failure. For example, a building with a weak foundation or missing structural supports can be described as unsupported.
In a metaphorical sense, the word can denote ideas, statements, or arguments lacking evidence, substantiation, or justification. It implies a lack of factual or logical support, making the claim weak, unconvincing, or unreliable. For instance, an unsupported theory does not have enough scientific evidence or empirical data to back it up, making it less credible.
Unsupported can also refer to individuals or groups that lack sufficient emotional or social support. It describes a situation where someone does not have the necessary assistance, encouragement, or backing from others, which can lead to feelings of isolation, vulnerability, or ineptitude.
Overall, unsupported signifies the absence or insufficiency of support, reinforcement, evidence, or assistance, both in the physical and metaphorical realms.
Not upheld; not sustained.
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 "unsupported" is derived from the combination of two roots: "un-" and "supported".
1. "Un-" is a prefix commonly used in English to indicate negation or reversal. It comes from the Old English prefix "un-", which derives from the Germanic "un", meaning "not" or "against".
2. "Supported" is the past participle form of the verb "support". This verb originates from the Old French word "supporter", which ultimately comes from the Latin word "supportare". "Supportare" is a combination of "sub" meaning "under" and "portare" meaning "to carry".
When the prefix "un-" is added to "supported", it negates the meaning of the word, resulting in "unsupported". The term indicates the absence of support or the lack of reinforcement.
