unofficial

adjective

un·​of·​fi·​cial ˌən-ə-ˈfi-shəl 

also -ō-

: not authorized or acknowledged by a government, group, class, or society : not official

unofficial results

an unofficial policy

unofficially adverb

Examples of unofficial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Table of Contents takes the form of song titles to pair the music, if desired, and (unofficial) Spotify playlists have sprung up to assist. —Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 25 Jan. 2026

Getty Images Etiquette is something that is often brought up among theater goers; an unofficial set of rules to ensure not only that patrons enjoy a fantastic show, but to also establish a safe and comfortable working environment for the actors and creatives. —Emma Kershaw, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026

Gabay’s presence gives Israel an unofficial representative on the executive board. —Sam Mednick, Los Angeles Times, 19 Jan. 2026

Following Hudson Williams‘ appearance on the NBC talk show last week, The Tonight Show host, Saturday Night Live alum and unofficial Lorne Michaels advisor, Jimmy Fallon recommended the actor to make his SNL hosting debut next. —Glenn Garner, Deadline, 17 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1784, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unofficial

• artificial
• beneficial
• cicatricial
• interstitial
• nonjudicial
• nonofficial
• prejudicial
• sacrificial
• superficial
• extrajudicial
• semiofficial
• initial

Medical Definition

unofficial

adjective

un·​of·​fi·​cial ˌən-ə-ˈfish-əl 

: not official

specifically : of, relating to, or being a drug not described in the United States Pharmacopeia and National Formulary compare nonofficial, official