unsanctioned

adjective

un·​sanc·​tioned ˌən-ˈsaŋ(k)-shənd How to pronounce unsanctioned (audio)
: lacking effective or authoritative approval or consent : not sanctioned
an unsanctioned boxing match
… a solution unsanctioned by educated custom …Edward Finegan

Examples of unsanctioned 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.
Rogue dyers have been a problem, too, with a few cases of unsanctioned dumping of colorants into the North Branch of the river despite the presence of conservation police patrols. Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 14 Mar. 2025 Wilson had been taking part in an off-campus and unsanctioned fraternity ritual, WAFB reported. CBS News, 7 Mar. 2025 On Tuesday, local news station WAFB-TV reported that sources now claim the incident took place in a warehouse off campus, where Wilson and eight other pledges allegedly endured blows to the chest as part of an unsanctioned fraternity ritual. Melissa Noel, Essence, 6 Mar. 2025 The university said Wednesday on Facebook that an internal investigation had been launched following reports that the event was unsanctioned. Minyvonne Burke, NBC News, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unsanctioned

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unsanctioned was in 1785

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Cite this Entry

“Unsanctioned.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unsanctioned. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

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