unsolicited
UK: ˌʌnsəˈlɪsɪtɪd | US: ˌʌnsəˈlɪsɪtɪd
adj. not asked for or requested
adj. given or done voluntarily without being prompted
unsolicited = un<not> + solicit<ask, urge> + ed<adjective suffix>
- un: A prefix of Old English origin meaning "not," used to negate the meaning of the root.
- solicit: From Latin solicitare ("to disturb, urge"), combining solus ("whole") + citare ("to set in motion"). Evolved to mean "to ask earnestly."
- ed: A suffix forming adjectives, indicating the state or quality of the root.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin solicitare, reflecting the idea of "urging" or "disturbing." The prefix un negates the action, creating a term for something not asked for. Over time, "solicit" narrowed to formal requests (e.g., business solicitations), making "unsolicited" describe voluntary or unwelcome actions.
She received unsolicited advice from strangers.
The company sent unsolicited emails to potential clients.
His unsolicited help was appreciated but unnecessary.
Unsolicited gifts often create awkward situations.
The editor rejected unsolicited manuscripts without review.