unpremeditated

UK: ˌʌnprɪˈmɛdɪteɪtɪd | US: ˌʌnprɪˈmɛdɪteɪtɪd

Definition

  1. adj. not planned or thought out in advance; spontaneous

Structure
un <not>pre <before>meditated <thought out>
Etymology

The word "unpremeditated" combines three morphemes:

  1. "un-" (a prefix meaning "not," from Old English) negates the following term.
  2. "pre-" (a prefix meaning "before," from Latin prae) indicates prior action.
  3. "meditated" (from Latin meditari, meaning "to think or reflect") refers to deliberate consideration.
    Originally used in legal contexts to describe actions without prior intent, the term evolved to describe spontaneity in general. The morphemes logically build the meaning: "not + before + thought out."
Examples

  1. His apology seemed sincere but entirely unpremeditated.

  2. The judge ruled the act as unpremeditated, reducing the charges.

  3. She gave an unpremeditated speech that moved the audience.

  4. Their meeting was unpremeditated, yet it changed both their lives.

  5. The artist preferred unpremeditated brushstrokes for a raw effect.