unheard

adjective

un·​heard ˌən-ˈhərd How to pronounce unheard (audio)
1
a
: not perceived by the ear
Their cries for help were unheard.
b
: not given attention
The students' concerns went unheard [=were ignored] by the administration.
2
archaic : unheard-of

Examples of unheard in a Sentence

Their cries for help were unheard.
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.
The battery lasts for an industry-best 40 hours and is replaceable (essentially unheard of in consumer electronics). — Eliza Thompson, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 That's almost unheard of in this category, where batteries are usually sealed under glue and plastic. — Christian De Looper, PC Magazine, 13 Oct. 2026 Listening to it as its own, distinct work, particularly after a long quarter-century with no new music from Stevie at all, Songs in the Key of Life EP seems like a wonder—four unheard recordings from a master in full flight. — Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Pitchfork, 10 Oct. 2026 The reissue features additional unheard tracks and studio chatter between the band. — Thomas Smith, Billboard, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unheard

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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

Phrases Containing unheard

Rhymes for unheard

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Browse Nearby Words

unhealthy
unheard
unheard-of
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Cite this Entry

“Unheard.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unheard. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

unheard

adjective
un·​heard ˌən-ˈhərd How to pronounce unheard (audio)
1
: not heard by the ear
2
: not given a hearing
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