nameless

UK: ˈneɪmləs | US: ˈneɪmləs

Definition

  1. adj. without a name; anonymous

  2. adj. lacking distinction or recognition

  3. adj. (literary) indescribable or beyond naming

Structure
name <word by which someone/something is called>less <without>
Etymology

The word "nameless" combines the Old English root "name" (from Proto-Germanic *namô) with the suffix "-less," derived from Old English lēas (meaning "devoid of"). The construction follows a straightforward Germanic pattern of negation, where "-less" negates the preceding noun. Historically, "nameless" first appeared in Middle English (14th century) to describe literal anonymity, later expanding to metaphorical uses like "indescribable" in poetic contexts.

Examples

  1. The tombstone bore the words "A Nameless Soldier."

  2. She felt a nameless dread as the fog thickened.

  3. The artist remained nameless despite his masterpiece.

  4. Ancient myths often speak of nameless gods.

  5. A nameless emotion stirred in her chest.