untapped
UK: ʌnˈtæpt | US: ʌnˈtæpt
adj. not yet used or exploited
adj. (of resources or potential) remaining available for future use
The word "untapped" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not") with the verb "tap" (from Old English "tæppian," meaning "to draw out liquid, especially from a cask"). The suffix "-ed" turns it into an adjective. Originally used literally for unused barrels of liquid, it now metaphorically describes unexploited resources or potential. The logic follows: "not (un-) + drawn out (tap) + in state of (-ed)."
The region has vast untapped oil reserves.
Her artistic talent remains untapped due to lack of training.
Untapped markets offer great opportunities for startups.
Scientists study untapped geothermal energy sources.
The project aims to utilize untapped human potential.