unsuspecting
UK: ˌʌnsəˈspektɪŋ | US: ˌʌnsəˈspektɪŋ
adj. not aware of or expecting something, especially something harmful or deceptive
The word "unsuspecting" combines the negative prefix "un-" (from Old English "un-," meaning "not") with the verb "suspect" (from Latin "suspectare," meaning "to mistrust") and the adjectival suffix "-ing." The prefix "un-" negates the root "suspect," which originally implied doubt or mistrust. Over time, "suspect" evolved into "suspect" in English, retaining its core meaning of doubt. The suffix "-ing" turns the verb into an adjective, describing someone who is "not doubting" or "not expecting harm." The word paints a vivid picture of innocence or vulnerability due to lack of suspicion.
The unsuspecting tourist fell for the scam.
She walked home alone, unsuspecting of the danger ahead.
The hacker targeted unsuspecting users with fake emails.
The prank startled the unsuspecting audience.
He approached the unsuspecting deer quietly.