unlicensed
UK: ʌnˈlaɪsənst | US: ʌnˈlaɪsənst
adj. not having official permission or legal authorization
adj. operating without a required license or permit
unlicensed = un<not> + license<permission> + ed<adjective suffix>
- un<not>: A prefix of negation, from Old English un-, meaning "not" or "opposite of."
- license<permission>: From Latin licentia (freedom, permission), via Old French licence.
- ed<adjective suffix>: A suffix forming adjectives, indicating a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word unlicensed combines the negative prefix un- with license, which traces back to Latin licentia (freedom to act). Over time, license evolved to mean formal permission, and unlicensed emerged to describe the absence of such authorization. The -ed suffix solidifies its adjectival form, commonly used in legal and regulatory contexts.
The unlicensed driver was fined for operating a vehicle without a permit.
Selling unlicensed merchandise violates copyright laws.
The clinic was shut down for employing unlicensed practitioners.
Unlicensed software can pose security risks to users.
Broadcasting on unlicensed frequencies is illegal in many countries.