unearned

adjective

un·​earned ˌən-ˈərnd 

1

: not gained by labor, service, or skill

unearned income

2

: scored as a result of an error by the opposing team

an unearned run

Examples of unearned in a Sentence

Bank interest is regarded as unearned income.

Recent Examples on the Web

Detroit starter Troy Melton allowed an unearned run on four hits and a walk over six-plus innings, striking out five. — CBS News, 10 Aug. 2026

Braves closer Raisel Iglesias first allowed an unearned run in the ninth — a result of his own throwing error — followed by a two-out RBI double from nine-hole hitter Austin Wells. — Chad Bishop, AJC.com, 8 Aug. 2026

He was accused of approving $42,000 in unearned overtime pay for his female assistant. — Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 8 Aug. 2026

The sharpest trigger of all was power that came from a prior injustice – an advantage that looked unearned. — Esmt Berlin, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing unearned

• unearned increment

Rhymes for unearned

• overturned
• unconcerned
• adjourned
• concerned
• discerned
• interned
• returned
• sunburned
• unburned
• unlearned
• unturned
• upturned

Kids Definition

unearned

adjective

un·​earned ˌən-ˈərnd 

ˈən-

: not gained by labor, service, or skill

unearned income