unto

preposition

un·​to ˈən-(ˌ)tü How to pronounce unto (audio)
1
: to
2
—used as a function word to indicate reference or concern
… they became a world unto themselves.—Anne T. Fleming

Examples of unto in a Sentence

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.
Big names holding the pen Some celebrated playwrights are theater categories unto themselves. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 6 Sep. 2026 This much space in the neighborhood is rare enough to be a feature unto itself. — Nora Deligter, Curbed, 4 Sep. 2026 With Pataaka now open, Midtown’s Spring Quarter development has become a dining destination unto itself. — Henri Hollis, AJC.com, 1 Sep. 2026 The designer Dapper Dan, who helped invent hip-hop fashion, was originally known for his high-fashion knockoffs, but consumers came to view him as a brand unto himself. — Kelefa Sanneh, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unto

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, probably from un- (as in until) + to to

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Browse Nearby Words

untitled
unto
untogether
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unto. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

unto

preposition
un·​to ˌən-tə How to pronounce unto (audio)
ˈən-tü
: to entry 1
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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