unfounded

adjective

un·​found·​ed ˌən-ˈfau̇n-dəd How to pronounce unfounded (audio)
Synonyms of unfoundednext
: lacking a sound basis : groundless, unwarranted
an unfounded accusation

Synonyms

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Examples of unfounded in a Sentence

the accusation proved to be unfounded
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.
Most concerning is Putin's calculation—not entirely unfounded—that Washington's eagerness for resolution will lead to pressuring Kyiv into virtual surrender by restricting military aid and intelligence sharing. — Steve Forbes, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025 Somehow, Woodland was able to carry on playing after he was first woken up with a jolt by unfounded fears at the Mexico Open in April, remarkably making eight cuts in his next 10 tournaments. — Don Riddell, CNN, 13 Mar. 2025 Peter & Paul parishioners say are flatly false, including an unfounded claim that the deacon has a criminal record and was once sentenced to 30 days in jail. — Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 13 Mar. 2025 At least one expert told Ars that their fear isn't completely unfounded. Signed into law by Joe Biden in 2022, the CHIPS Act sought to grant $52.7 billion in subsidies to bring the most advanced chipmakers into the US. — Ars Technica, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unfounded

Word History

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unfounded was in 1648

Rhymes for unfounded

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unfounded
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Cite this Entry

“Unfounded.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfounded. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

unfounded

adjective
un·​found·​ed ˌən-ˈfau̇n-dəd How to pronounce unfounded (audio)
ˈən-
: lacking a sound base : groundless
unfounded suspicions

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Nglish: Translation of unfounded for Spanish Speakers

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