unmothered

adjective

un·​mothered

¦ən+

: deprived of a mother : motherless

adolescent gosling that, unmothered, attached itself to him

—Della Lutes

Word History

Etymology

un- entry 1 + mother, noun + -ed

First Known Use

1821, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now