adjective / noun
unknown
Not known or identified, or something not yet known.
The cause of the strange noise is still unknown.
Etymology
The negative prefix denies knowledge or identification. The adjective can also stand as a noun for the thing not yet known.
More examples
- An unknown caller leaves a message on my phone.
- Too many unknowns remain for us to make a decision.
- She faces the unknown with more curiosity than fear.
Forms
unknown · unknowns
Similar words
- unidentified
- Specifically means that someone's or something's identity has not been established.
- unfamiliar
- Emphasizes a person's lack of experience with or recognition of something.
- mysterious
- Suggests something puzzling or secret, not simply unknown.