unproven

adjective

un·​prov·​en ˌən-ˈprü-vən How to pronounce unproven (audio)
 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Newly acquired Anfernee Simons is a bucket getter with potential on defense, but the depth is young and unproven, while the center position has been completely altered. Stan Son, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025 Bello had a solid year, but Payton Tolle and Connelly Early will likely have bigger roles next year and are still relatively unproven at the big league level. Aaliyan Mohammed, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Oct. 2025 In contrast, the potential harms of overdiagnosis remain largely unproven. Carol Mathews, The Conversation, 15 Oct. 2025 To improve there, the Celtics will need more from their unproven frontcourt. Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unproven

Word History

First Known Use

1563, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unproven was in 1563

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unproven.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unproven. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Legal Definition

unproven

adjective
un·​prov·​en
ˌən-ˈprü-vən
: not proven
an unproven allegation

More from Merriam-Webster on unproven

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!