unwitting
UK: ʌnˈwɪtɪŋ | US: ʌnˈwɪtɪŋ
adj. not aware of the full facts; unintentional
adj. acting or done without knowledge or consciousness
The word "unwitting" traces back to Old English, combining the negative prefix "un-" (meaning "not") with "wit" (from Old English "witan," meaning "to know"). The suffix "-ing" turns it into an adjective. Historically, "wit" referred to knowledge or mental sharpness, so "unwitting" literally means "not knowing." Over time, it evolved to describe actions or states lacking awareness or intent, often implying innocence or accidental behavior.
He was an unwitting participant in the scam.
Her unwitting mistake caused a major delay.
The unwitting audience had no idea they were part of an experiment.
The journalist used unwitting sources to gather information.
Their unwitting cooperation helped the plan succeed.