unshorn

adjective

un·​shorn ˌən-ˈshȯrn How to pronounce unshorn (audio)
: not shorn
an unshorn sheep
unshorn hair

Examples of unshorn in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Devout members of the Sikh faith are expected to keep their beards unshorn or avoid trimming them to display their commitment to their religion. James Queallystaff Writer, Los Angeles Times, 9 Feb. 2023 Baptized Sikhs are required to carry or maintain the five articles of the Sikh faith: kesh (unshorn hair), kara (steel bracelet), kanga (small wooden comb), kachera (undershorts) and a kirpan (resembling a knife or sword). Brahmjot Kaur, NBC News, 26 Sep. 2022 The organization also pointed to its 2014 survey that found Sikh children who have articles of their faith such as turbans, other head coverings and unshorn hair are bullied at a rate of 67%. Mj Slaby, The Indianapolis Star, 26 Feb. 2022 Unlike Samson, the unshorn hair on me and my son is a reminder of our strength, but not the source of it. Vanessa Hua, Time, 3 Nov. 2021 Six women raise their hands, flashing thick thatches of unshorn underarm hair. Washington Post, 17 June 2021 Many practicing Sikhs are visually distinguishable by their articles of faith, which include the unshorn hair and turban. Casey Smith, Fox News, 18 Apr. 2021 Keeping it unshorn and tied up in a turban is a key tenet of his religion. Harmeet Kaur, CNN, 27 May 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'unshorn.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unshorn was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near unshorn

Cite this Entry

“Unshorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unshorn. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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