unbidden
UK: ʌnˈbɪd(ə)n | US: ʌnˈbɪd(ə)n
adj. not invited or requested
adj. spontaneous; arising without external cause
The word "unbidden" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not") with the root "bid" (Old English "biddan," meaning "to ask, command, or invite") and the suffix "-en" (a past participle marker in Middle English). Originally, "bid" conveyed a sense of authoritative request or invitation, and "unbidden" literally meant "not asked for." Over time, it evolved to describe actions or occurrences that happen without prompting or permission, retaining its core logic of absence of invitation.
She arrived unbidden at the private meeting.
Unbidden memories of his childhood flooded his mind.
The thought came unbidden, startling her.
He offered help unbidden, sensing her struggle.
Unbidden guests disrupted the quiet evening.