unconscious

UK: ʌnˈkɒnʃəs | US: ʌnˈkɑːnʃəs

Definition

  1. adj. not awake or aware of one's surroundings

  2. adj. (psychology) operating without conscious control, as in automatic behavior

  3. n. (psychology) the part of the mind containing repressed instincts and memories

Structure
un <not>conscious <aware>un <not>conscious <aware>
Etymology

The word "unconscious" emerged in the early 18th century, blending the Germanic negation prefix "un-" with the Latin-rooted "conscious." Its psychological sense was popularized by Freud in the late 19th century to describe mental processes beyond active awareness. The morphemes reflect a logical opposition: "un-" negates the state of being "conscious," creating a term for lack of awareness or hidden mental activity.

Examples

  1. The patient remained unconscious after the surgery.

  2. Her unconscious habits revealed hidden anxieties.

  3. Freud theorized that dreams express unconscious desires.

  4. He was unconscious of the danger until it was too late.

  5. The artist drew inspiration from his unconscious mind.