unearned

adjective

un·​earned ˌən-ˈərnd How to pronounce unearned (audio)
1
: not gained by labor, service, or skill
unearned income
2
: scored as a result of an error by the opposing team
an unearned run

Examples of unearned in a Sentence

Bank interest is regarded as unearned income.
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.
Snell made two starts, going five innings against the Detroit Tigers in the home opener, then going four innings and giving up five unearned runs against the Braves on Wednesday. Bill Plunkett, Oc Register, 6 Apr. 2025 The topic came up only after the Pirates ace dominated the Tampa Bay Rays, allowing one unearned run on three hits in seven innings of a 4-2 Pittsburgh victory. Wire Reports, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2025 Díaz, who has struggled with his command since suffering a hamstring injury early in spring training, allowed an unearned run on a hit and a walk against the Kansas City Royals’ affiliate. C. Trent Rosecrans, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2025 Garcia also picked up the save, pitching the final two innings and allowing an unearned run. Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unearned

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unearned was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unearned.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unearned. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

unearned

adjective
un·​earned ˌən-ˈərnd How to pronounce unearned (audio)
ˈən-
: not gained by labor, service, or skill
unearned income
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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