unprecedented
UK: ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd | US: ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd
adj. never done or known before; without previous example
unprecedented = un<not> + precedent<prior example> + ed<adjective suffix>
- un (prefix): From Old English "un-," meaning "not," used to negate the following morpheme.
- precedent (root): From Latin "praecedens" (stem "praecedent-"), meaning "going before," derived from "prae-" (before) + "cedere" (to go).
- ed (suffix): Forms past participles or adjectives indicating a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word "unprecedented" emerged in the early 17th century, combining the negative prefix "un-" with "precedent," which originally referred to a prior legal decision or example. Over time, "precedent" broadened to mean any prior instance, and "unprecedented" came to describe something entirely novel, lacking any historical parallel. The logical progression reflects a focus on uniqueness by negating the concept of prior examples.
The pandemic caused unprecedented disruptions to global travel.
Her achievements in science are unprecedented for someone her age.
The company reported unprecedented profits this quarter.
Climate change is leading to unprecedented weather patterns.
The technology offers unprecedented opportunities for education.