unintentional

adjective

un·​in·​ten·​tion·​al ˌən-in-ˈten(t)-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce unintentional (audio)
: not done by intention or design : not intentional
an unintentional effect
causing unintentional harm/offense
unintentionally adverb
an unintentionally offensive remark

Synonyms of unintentional

Examples of unintentional in a Sentence

an unintentional encounter with an old classmate at the mall an unintentional insult that nevertheless was very hurtful
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.
This can help prevent overeating or mindless snacking that can lead to unintentional weight gain. Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 3 Nov. 2025 In a recent episode of Apple TV's The Reluctant Traveler, the Prince of Wales opened up to host Eugene Levy about the late Duke of Edinburgh’s famously sharp (and occasionally unintentional) sense of humor, recalling how much laughter filled their family gatherings. Janine Henni, PEOPLE, 31 Oct. 2025 The release said 40% of cases involved an unintentional exposure, 82% of which affected pediatric patients. Christina Hall, Freep.com, 28 Oct. 2025 It’s also made with a protective toe bumper to prevent injuries during any unintentional impact. Jasmine Gomez, Travel + Leisure, 25 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unintentional

Word History

First Known Use

1782, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unintentional was in 1782

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unintentional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unintentional. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on unintentional

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!