unintentional

adjective

un·​in·​ten·​tion·​al ˌən-in-ˈten(t)-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce unintentional (audio)
Synonyms of unintentionalnext
: not done by intention or design : not intentional
an unintentional effect
causing unintentional harm/offense
unintentionally adverb
an unintentionally offensive remark

Synonyms of unintentional

Examples of unintentional in a Sentence

an unintentional encounter with an old classmate at the mall an unintentional insult that nevertheless was very hurtful
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.
This can help prevent unintentional damage to local ecosystems and ensure that your garden remains environmentally friendly and sustainable. Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 5 Apr. 2026 Ducati says this is to avoid unintentional engagement of neutral during the last and most crucial stage of braking. New Atlas, 4 Apr. 2026 Digitally tweaked to fit the syncopated rhythm and stay on key, Weir’s vocals have a discomfiting quality that’s almost certainly unintentional—especially considering how often the beauty of the Dead lied in their very human imperfections. Sam Sodomsky, Pitchfork, 3 Apr. 2026 In comparison, the United States sees more than 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths each year, the CDC said. Hali Smith march 21, Idaho Statesman, 21 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unintentional

Word History

First Known Use

1782, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unintentional was in 1782

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Cite this Entry

“Unintentional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unintentional. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

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