unsound
UK: ʌnˈsaʊnd | US: ʌnˈsaʊnd
adj. not solid or stable; weak or defective
adj. not based on valid reasoning or evidence; illogical
adj. (of a person) not mentally or physically healthy
unsound = un<not> + sound<healthy/stable>
- un-: A prefix of negation, from Old English "un-," meaning "not."
- sound: From Old English "gesund" (healthy, safe), related to German "gesund." Originally conveyed physical wellness, later extended to structural stability and logical validity.
Etymology Origin:
The word "unsound" emerged in Middle English by combining the native English prefix "un-" with "sound," which traces back to Germanic roots. Initially describing poor health, its meaning expanded to critique flawed structures (e.g., buildings) and arguments. The progression reflects a metaphorical shift from bodily weakness to abstract instability.
The bridge was closed due to unsound foundations.
His theory was dismissed as unsound by experts.
Prolonged stress left her mentally unsound.
The judge ruled the evidence unsound and inadmissible.
Unsound business practices led to the company’s collapse.