unsuspecting

adjective

un·​sus·​pect·​ing ˌən-sə-ˈspek-tiŋ How to pronounce unsuspecting (audio)
Synonyms of unsuspectingnext
: unaware of any danger or threat : not suspecting
unsuspecting victims
unsuspectingly adverb

Synonyms of unsuspecting

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Examples of unsuspecting in a Sentence

sidewalk vendors selling bogus gems to unsuspecting tourists
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.
As Cohen is best known for playing characters like Ali G, Borat and Brüno in the real world while interacting with unsuspecting people, the interview focuses on the craft behind his brand of undercover comedy and the objectives of his satire. — Selome Hailu, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026 What powers Nordrum’s lovesick devotion is the gradual and unsuspecting rise in chemistry between his Brandon and Creed-Miles’ Marianne. — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 15 Oct. 2026 Either form can be easily and covertly placed into an unsuspecting person’s beverage or food. — Christopher P. Holstege, The Conversation, 15 Oct. 2026 In the halls of NYC’s immigration court, the casual chitchat of ICE agents waiting to arrest their unsuspecting targets stands in stark contrast to the horrors these detainees are likely to face. — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unsuspecting

Word History

First Known Use

1595, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unsuspecting was in 1595

Rhymes for unsuspecting

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Browse Nearby Words

unsuspectedness
unsuspecting
unsuspectingly
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Cite this Entry

“Unsuspecting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unsuspecting. Accessed 22 Oct. 2026.

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