unprepared

UK: ˌʌnprɪˈpeəd | US: ˌʌnprɪˈperd

Definition

  1. adj. not ready or planned in advance

  2. adj. lacking the necessary skills or knowledge for something

Structure
un <not>pre <before>pared <made ready>
Etymology

The word "unprepared" combines three morphemes:

  1. "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not") negates the following term.
  2. "pre-" (Latin "prae-," meaning "before") indicates prior action.
  3. "pared" (from Latin "parare," meaning "to make ready") forms the root of "prepare."
    Originally, "prepare" entered English via Old French ("preparer"), evolving from Latin "praeparare" (prae + parare). The addition of "un-" flips the meaning to "not made ready beforehand," reflecting a logical progression from its components.
Examples

  1. She was unprepared for the sudden test in class.

  2. The team felt unprepared to face such a strong opponent.

  3. His unprepared speech still impressed the audience.

  4. Going camping unprepared can be dangerous.

  5. The report was rejected because it was clearly unprepared.