unbidden

adjective

un·​bid·​den ˌən-ˈbi-dᵊn 

variants or less commonly unbid

ˌən-ˈbid 

: not bidden : unasked, uninvited

barged in unbidden

thoughts that come to mind unbidden

Synonyms of unbidden

• unwanted
• unsolicited
• unnecessary
• uninvited
• unasked

Examples of unbidden in a Sentence

thoughts that come to the mind unbidden

she arrived, unbidden, to help out at the Red Cross center

Recent Examples on the Web

But the violence that came unbidden eclipses our differences. — Stephen Trimble, Denver Post, 8 Apr. 2026

Like runner’s high, or epiphany in prayer, the goonstate is not the point of the practice, but rather its occasional and unbidden reward. — Daniel Kolitz, Harpers Magazine, 24 Oct. 2025

Then the voice interrupted, unbidden. — Stephen Humphries, Christian Science Monitor, 10 Oct. 2025

The blush has already arrived, unbidden and uncontrollable, broadcasting your inner state to everyone in the room. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 11 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English unbiden, unbeden, from Old English unbeden, from un- + beden, past participle of biddan to entreat — more at bid entry 1

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unbidden

• bedridden
• bidden
• hidden
• midden
• ridden
• swidden
• gramicidin
• overridden

Kids Definition

unbidden

adjective

un·​bid·​den ˌən-ˈbid-ᵊn 

variants also unbid

-ˈbid 

: not bidden : unasked, uninvited

she barged in unbidden