unfounded

adjective

un·​found·​ed ˌən-ˈfau̇n-dəd How to pronounce unfounded (audio)
Synonyms of unfoundednext
: lacking a sound basis : groundless, unwarranted
an unfounded accusation

Synonyms of unfounded

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Examples of unfounded in a Sentence

the accusation proved to be unfounded
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Second, in some cases, state law doesn't allow DOI to see the record at all, including cases ACS determined to be unfounded. — Alice Gainer, CBS News, 31 July 2026 These are the folks who produce unfounded, irrelevant verbiage that lacks a critical sense or analytical insight. — Steve H. Hanke, Fortune, 29 July 2026 Modern medicine tells us that the stigma and resulting isolation were unfounded, as Hansen's disease is not easily spread from person to person. — Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 29 July 2026 Tehran has always denied involvement in such attacks, calling allegations ​to the contrary unfounded and politically motivated. — Benjamin Weinthal, FOXNews.com, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unfounded

Word History

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unfounded was in 1648

Rhymes for unfounded

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Browse Nearby Words

unfound
unfounded
unfoundedly
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Cite this Entry

“Unfounded.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfounded. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

unfounded

adjective
un·​found·​ed ˌən-ˈfau̇n-dəd How to pronounce unfounded (audio)
ˈən-
: lacking a sound base : groundless
unfounded suspicions

More from Merriam-Webster on unfounded

Nglish: Translation of unfounded for Spanish Speakers

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