unearned

[ uhn-urnd ]

adjective

1. not received in exchange for labor or services; not gained by lawful work or employment.
2. not earned; earn; unmerited; undeserved:

   unearned promotion.

3. not yet earned: earn:

   Lenders are not permitted to take borrowers' unearned wages as collateral.

unearned

/ ʌnˈɜːnd /

adjective

1. not deserved
2. not yet earned

Word History and Origins

Origin of unearned¹

Middle English word dating back to 1150–1200; un- ¹, earn ¹, -ed ²

Example Sentences

As if on cue, the Dodgers scored five unearned runs in the top of the fifth inning, waking up the comatose Paradise crowd.

From Los Angeles Times

While King gave up just an unearned run in five innings, Knack ran out of gas in a four-inning, four-run outing; a concerning result for an unproven pitcher who likely will start in the postseason.

From Los Angeles Times

The Dodgers also committed three errors, paving the way for the Brewers to score four unearned runs, and their win streak was snapped at five.

From Los Angeles Times

Gore allowed five runs — all unearned — in four innings, but walked a career-high six batters and yielded five hits.

From Los Angeles Times

Suarez left after surrendering two unearned runs on two hits, striking out five in 2 2/3 innings.

From Seattle Times