unprepared

adjective

un·​pre·​pared ˌən-pri-ˈperd 

: not prepared

was unprepared for class

… they were woefully unprepared to take on the responsibilities expected of them.

—Richard M. Ketchum

unpreparedness

ˌən-pri-ˈper-əd-nəs 

also -ˈperd-nəs

noun

Synonyms of unprepared

• impromptu
• improvised
• improvisational

Examples of unprepared in a Sentence

an obviously unprepared acceptance speech by the surprise winner

Recent Examples on the Web

In particular, Maher accused the White House of being unprepared for an Iranian military blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. —Molly Parks, The Washington Examiner, 14 Mar. 2026

The brand-new military craft is designed to be a VTOL machine that can dart through the skies at jet-like speeds of 400 to 450 knots and hover from unprepared surfaces—at least, that’s the goal. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 11 Mar. 2026

Brissette’s questions on process routinely trip up unprepared witnesses. —Emerson Clarridge updated March 10, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Mar. 2026

Going to the counter unprepared Customers should decide on their drink — including size and any sweetness adjustments — before stepping up to the counter, Grotts said. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 7 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1528, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unprepared

• catch unawares/unprepared/by surprise

Rhymes for unprepared

• aired
• bared
• blared
• caird
• cared
• chaired
• dared
• erred
• fared
• flared
• glared
• haired