unstructured

adjective

un·​struc·​tured ˌən-ˈstrək-chərd 

: lacking structure or organization: such as

a

: not formally organized in a set or conventional pattern

an unstructured question

feel insecure in an unstructured situation

b

: not having a system or hierarchy typical of an organized society

Synonyms of unstructured

• chaotic
• amorphous
• shapeless
• formless
• unformed
• unshaped

Examples of unstructured in a Sentence

Unstructured play time is important for children.

Her life is very unstructured.

Recent Examples on the Web

Accessed through tools like Claude Gov—which became a preferred option for some defense personnel, according to Bloomberg—the system taps into enormous data pipelines to turn a flood of unstructured information into readable intelligence. —Eric Sullivan, Scientific American, 6 Mar. 2026

Rather than rushing from violin lessons to soccer practice every day, free-range parents encourage unstructured play. —Amy Morin, Parents, 5 Mar. 2026

The decline in left-footed players in each starting lineup has fed into a trio of slow and unstructured first halves against West Ham, Everton and now Palace. —Carl Anka, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026

This unstructured data represents over 80% of information in organizations today. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 13 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

unstructured

adjective

un·​struc·​tured ˌən-ˈstrək-chərd 

: lacking structure : not formally organized

unstructured psychological tests