unemployed
UK: ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪd | US: ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪd
adj. not having a paid job despite being able and willing to work
n. (the unemployed) people who are without jobs
unemployed = un<not> + employ<use/hire> + ed<adjective suffix>
- un-: A prefix of negation, from Old English "un-," meaning "not."
- employ: From Middle French "employer," derived from Latin "implicāre" (to involve, engage), later evolving to mean "to use or hire someone’s services."
- -ed: A suffix forming adjectives, indicating a state or condition (e.g., "hired" → "employed").
Etymology Origin:
The word "unemployed" emerged in the early 17th century, combining the negative prefix "un-" with "employ," which originally meant "to engage in work." Over time, "employ" narrowed to mean "to hire," and "unemployed" logically came to describe those not hired or without work. The suffix "-ed" solidifies its adjectival form, reflecting a passive state (not being employed).
She has been unemployed for six months since leaving her previous job.
The government introduced programs to support the unemployed during the recession.
Despite his qualifications, he remained unemployed due to the competitive market.
The survey revealed a rising number of unemployed graduates.
Unemployed workers often face financial and psychological challenges.