unintended

adjective

un·​in·​tend·​ed ˌən-in-ˈten-dəd 

: not planned as a purpose or goal : not deliberate or intended

an unintended consequence/effect

an unintended pregnancy

Synonyms of unintended

• accidental

Examples of unintended in a Sentence

backyard digging that resulted in unintended damage to buried phone wires

a response that yielded an unintended insight into her personal character

Recent Examples on the Web

Americans have all seen in other conflicts how quickly military objectives can overreach, collide with political realities and produce unintended consequences. — Letters To The Editor, Washington Post, 4 Nov. 2026

Without understanding the applicable tax rules and consulting the appropriate professionals, a charitable gift could create unintended tax consequences. — Jp Shaffer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Nov. 2026

Some research in mice suggests this phenomenon could lead to immune issues or other unintended health complications. — Megan Molteni, STAT, 3 Nov. 2026

This reduces unintended air recirculation and overall increases the efficiency of the box. — John Alexander, Popular Science, 1 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1649, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unintended

• apprehended
• comprehended
• condescended
• recommended
• resuspended
• unamended
• unattended
• undefended
• undescended
• unexpended
• amended
• appended