unfounded

adjective

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

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.
The findings show a growing generational divide in workplace confidence, and these fears are not necessarily unfounded. Aliss Higham, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025 But any concerns that a lack of American support now will carry over to next year’s FIFA World Cup – in which the U.S. will play its group games in Southern California and Seattle – are probably unfounded. Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 5 July 2025 Are there First Amendment limits for non-citizens? Hans von Spakovsky, manager of the Election Law Reform Initiative at the conservative Heritage Foundation, said the First Amendment pushback is unfounded. Angele Latham, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 This story was updated after police said one reported shooting in Over-the-Rhine proved to be unfounded. David Ferrara, The Enquirer, 2 July 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

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Cite this Entry

“Unfounded.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfounded. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

unfounded

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

More from Merriam-Webster on unfounded

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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