unwritten

adjective

un·​writ·​ten ˌən-ˈri-tᵊn 

1

: not expressed in writing : oral, traditional

an unwritten rule

2

: containing no writing : blank

Synonyms

• nuncupative
• oral
• spoken
• verbal
• viva voce
• word-of-mouth

Examples of unwritten in a Sentence

They had an unwritten agreement.

an unwritten contract may not be enforceable

Recent Examples on the Web

Related article Remember when Princess Diana danced with John Travolta at the White House? Even Jackie Kennedy — who was celebrated for her ever-appropriate, timeless dress sense — sometimes eschewed the unwritten mandate of wearing American apparel. —Leah Dolan, CNN, 18 Jan. 2025

Beyond formal training, new employees learn unwritten rules, insider tips and valuable knowledge from experienced colleagues. —Rajesh Rajagopalan, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025

There is an unwritten civility contract girding every aspect of Canadian society. —Chris Jones, The Atlantic, 14 Mar. 2025

All basketball coaches in this state enjoy the unwritten Texas Coaches’ Protection Plan that ensures job security a longer than in other parts of the country. —Mac Engel, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing unwritten

• unwritten constitution
• unwritten law

Rhymes for unwritten

• handwritten
• rewritten
• typewritten
• bitten
• briton
• chiton
• gittin
• kitten
• mitten
• smitten
• whitten
• written

Kids Definition

unwritten

adjective

un·​writ·​ten ˌən-ˈrit-ᵊn 

ˈən-

1

: not put in writing : oral, traditional

an unwritten law

2

: containing no writing : blank

unwritten pages