unproven

adjective

un·​prov·​en ˌən-ˈprü-vən 

British also -ˈprō-

: not tested and shown to be good, true, or useful : not proven

an unproven allegation/theory

unproven benefits

unproven technology

Examples of unproven in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The clock is ticking for the Dolphins and their roster full of young, unproven players. — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 23 Aug. 2026

SpaceX is eager to retire it in favor of the much larger, still unproven Starship rocket. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 21 Aug. 2026

Fears of an injured Andersen, an unproven Levi and an inconsistent Jarry leave several routes to disappointment, but three options could be better than two. — Janson Duench, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026

Such beliefs continue in the 21st century, with certain factions making unproven claims about urine’s purported antiviral actions against the COVID-19–causing coronavirus. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1563, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unproven

• proven

Legal Definition

unproven

adjective

un·​prov·​en

ˌən-ˈprü-vən

: not proven

an unproven allegation