uncertain

adjective

un·​cer·​tain ˌən-ˈsər-tᵊn How to pronounce uncertain (audio)
1
a
: not known beyond doubt : dubious
an uncertain claim
b
: not having certain knowledge : doubtful
remains uncertain about her plans
c
: not clearly identified or defined
a fire of uncertain origin
2
: not constant : variable, fitful
an uncertain breeze
3
: indefinite, indeterminate
the time of departure is uncertain
4
: not certain to occur : problematical
his success was uncertain
5
: not reliable : untrustworthy
an uncertain ally
uncertainly adverb
uncertainness noun

Examples of uncertain in a Sentence

The time of departure is still uncertain. We are still uncertain of the truth. She remains uncertain about her plans. I'm uncertain about how to respond. The cause of the fire is uncertain. He has an uncertain temper. They face a financially uncertain future.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Our data is optimistic, but the politics is uncertain. James Morton Turner, Discover Magazine, 9 Nov. 2024 Even with a Republican Congress, some of this could prove difficult — and the potential fallout is uncertain at best. Carl Leubsdorf, The Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2024 So, what can parents do to model equanimity and grace in these very uncertain and high-pressure times? Chloe Schama, Vogue, 5 Nov. 2024 The fate of The Real Housewives of New Jersey’s season 15 is uncertain, star Dolores Catania said. Charna Flam, People.com, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for uncertain 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of uncertain was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near uncertain

Cite this Entry

“Uncertain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/uncertain. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

uncertain

adjective
un·​cer·​tain ˌən-ˈsərt-ᵊn How to pronounce uncertain (audio)
ˈən-
1
: not definite or fixed
an uncertain quantity
2
a
: not sure
uncertain of the truth
b
: not known for sure
an uncertain claim
3
: likely to change : not dependable
uncertain weather
uncertainly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on uncertain

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