Meaning & Definition of word "Unfounded"

Unfounded

/ʌnˈfaʊndɪd/

adjective:

  • 1. Not based on fact or reality; without foundation; groundless.
    • Example: The claims made by the whistleblower were unfounded and lacked any credible evidence.
  • 2. Having no basis in fact or truth.
    • Example: Her fears about losing her job were completely unfounded.
  • 3. Unjustified or baseless.
    • Example: The newspaper issued a retraction after realizing their report was unfounded.
  • 4. Not substantiated or supported.
    • Example: The accusations against the politician turned out to be unfounded.

Etymology

From 'un-' meaning 'not' + 'founded', past participle of 'found' meaning to establish or to base.

Common Phrases and Expressions

unfounded fears:

Fears that have no basis in reality.

unfounded claims:

Claims that are not supported by evidence.

unfounded allegations:

Allegations that lack verifiable proof.

Related Words

found:

To establish or base something on.

foundation:

The basis or groundwork of something.

Slang Meanings of unfounded

Meaning: Totally made up.

Example Sentence: That story is just unfounded gossip.

Meaning: Without proof.

Example Sentence: His accusations were just unfounded hot air.