unopened

UK: ʌnˈəʊpənd | US: ʌnˈoʊpənd

Definition

  1. adj. not having been opened; remaining sealed or shut

Structure
un <not>open <to make accessible>ed <past participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "unopened" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not") with the verb "open" (from Old English "openian," meaning "to make accessible") and the suffix "-ed" (indicating a past participle or adjective form). The logical progression is straightforward: "un-" negates the state of being "opened," creating a term for something that remains sealed or untouched.

Examples

  1. The letter lay unopened on the desk for days.

  2. She left the package unopened, unsure of its contents.

  3. The museum displayed an unopened tomb from ancient Egypt.

  4. His unopened emails piled up during his vacation.

  5. The unopened bottle of wine was saved for a special occasion.