uncontrolled

adjective

un·​con·​trolled ˌən-kən-ˈtrōld 

: not controlled: such as

a

: happening or done without being stopped, slowed, or controlled

an uncontrolled tantrum

his uncontrolled anger

uncontrolled hypertension

uncontrolled urban sprawl

b

: not conducted or maintained in accordance with fixed rules, restraints, or procedures

results from an uncontrolled study

c

: not regulated by law with regard to possession and use

uncontrolled substances

Synonyms of uncontrolled

• rampant
• runaway

Examples of uncontrolled in a Sentence

a tirade filled with uncontrolled anger about what the government was doing

Recent Examples on the Web

While the virus is continuing to spread uncontrolled in the southwest part of Utah, other parts of the state — including areas closer to Salt Lake City — are now experiencing increases in cases. —Erika Edwards, NBC news, 13 Mar. 2026

When a man already has high blood pressure or uncontrolled diabetes, the likely causes of ED are easier to pinpoint. —Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 4 Mar. 2026

As a result, the annual cost of caring for a single patient with persistent, uncontrolled diabetes averages over $100,000 (four times more than someone who newly develops the disease). —Robert Pearl, Twin Cities, 1 Mar. 2026

Waterproofing systems and seals are failing, causing pooling and uncontrolled leakage. —Dallas Morning News, 20 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1535, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for uncontrolled

• ahold
• behold
• billfold
• blindfold
• cajoled
• consoled
• controlled
• cotswold
• eightfold
• enfold
• enrolled
• extolled

Medical Definition

uncontrolled

adjective

un·​con·​trolled ˌən-kən-ˈtrōld 

1

: not being under control

uncontrolled hypertension

2

: not incorporating suitable experimental controls

uncontrolled drug trials