unheard
UK: ʌnˈhɜːd | US: ʌnˈhɜːrd
adj. not heard or listened to
adj. previously unknown or unnoticed
The word "unheard" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not") with the root "hear" (Old English "hieran," meaning "to perceive sound") and the past participle suffix "-d" (a variant of "-ed"). Historically, "un-" negates the action of hearing, implying something was not perceived audibly or ignored. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe things that are overlooked or unrecognized.
His protests went unheard by the authorities.
The unheard melodies of nature often go unnoticed in cities.
She brought forward an unheard argument in the debate.
The manuscript contained unheard details about the historical event.
Their struggles remained unheard until the documentary aired.