unexplained

adjective

un·​ex·​plained ˌən-ik-ˈsplānd 

: not explained or accounted for

an unexplained error

an unexplained delay

Examples of unexplained in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The gathering, billed as a briefing rather than a fullblown hearing, included a slate of experts in science, defense and technology who discussed with members of Congress how understanding the unexplained phenomena could lead to scientific breakthroughs and enhance national security. —Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2025

These unexplained objects have long fueled speculation about extraterrestrial life or secret military programs. —Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Sep. 2025

In addition to writing about Frances Glessner Lee, Bruce Goldfarb worked for the Chief Medical Examiner for the state of Maryland, which is where the nutshell studies of unexplained death are currently housed. —Katie Hafner, Scientific American, 10 Sep. 2025

This type of jargon is often left unexplained by analysts and misunderstood by fans. —Andrew Marchand, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1721, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unexplained

• foreordained
• unascertained
• abstained
• arraigned
• attained
• bloodstained
• campaigned
• complained
• constrained
• contained
• curtained
• detained