unto

preposition

un·​to ˈən-(ˌ)tü How to pronounce unto (audio)
1
: to
2
used as a function word to indicate reference or concern
they became a world unto themselvesAnne T. Fleming

Examples of unto in a Sentence

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.
Welch also knows that bringing pain to immigrant families might be a reason unto itself. Jack Herrera, New Yorker, 23 Apr. 2025 The temple was a veritable city unto itself: 24 departments made up the corporate body, ranging from administration and finance to the on-staff electricians to the vast musical theater production department. Claire Hoffman, Rolling Stone, 20 Apr. 2025 As a two-night showcase amid a week of hype, WrestleMania has turned into a festival, and the residual interest in outside shows is a business unto itself. Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025 But in recent years, that one inning of relief from a stronger pitcher in the middle of a game has become a specialty unto itself. Bruce Schoenfeld Robert Fass Tanya Pérez Brian St. Pierre, New York Times, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unto

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, probably from un- (as in until) + to to

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unto was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unto. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

unto

preposition
un·​to ˌən-tə How to pronounce unto (audio)
ˈən-tü
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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