unproven

adjective

un·​prov·​en ˌən-ˈprü-vən How to pronounce unproven (audio)
 British also  -ˈprō-
: not tested and shown to be good, true, or useful : not proven
an unproven allegation/theory
unproven benefits
unproven technology

Examples of unproven in a Sentence

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.
Other BuLi teams have take chances on young, unproven trainers, such as Jürgen Klop, Hansi Flick, Sebastian Hoeneß, and that guy who's training the German National Team. Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 13 May 2025 But the nurses rallied with us and convinced the administration to try this unknown and unproven technique. Erin Clack, People.com, 10 May 2025 Zermelo developed nine simple axioms, that is, unproven basic assumptions, on which everything is based in math. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 9 May 2025 She is not currently licensed as a doctor, failed to finish her surgical residency, and has voiced anti-vaccine opinions and embraced unproven alternative medicine, including advocating for raw milk and talking to trees. David Gilbert, Wired News, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for unproven

Word History

First Known Use

1563, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unproven was in 1563

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Cite this Entry

“Unproven.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unproven. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

Legal Definition

unproven

adjective
un·​prov·​en
ˌən-ˈprü-vən
: not proven
an unproven allegation

More from Merriam-Webster on unproven

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