unarmed

[ uhn-ahrmd ]

adjective

1. without weapons or armor.
2. not having claws, thorns, scales, etc., as animals or plants.
3. (of an artillery shell) not armed.

unarmed

/ ʌnˈɑːmd /

adjective

1. without weapons
2. (of animals and plants) having no claws, prickles, spines, thorns, or similar structures
3. of or relating to a projectile that does not use a detonator to initiate explosive action

Word History and Origins

Origin of unarmed¹

A Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; un- ¹, armed ²

Example Sentences

The Old Bailey jury heard that while Mr Kaba was unarmed, and Mr Blake gave evidence that he could see the driver was a "comparatively young and athletic" black man, police did not know who was at the wheel, and the car had been linked to a previous incident.

From BBC

But in the midst of her campaign, George Floyd, an unarmed black man, was murdered by a police officer during an arrest, igniting a nationwide racial reckoning and demand for criminal justice reform.

From BBC

McDonnell appeared before the council’s public safety committee on Tuesday to answer questions about his views on immigration, traffic enforcement and unarmed alternatives to police responses.

From Los Angeles Times

Mark Cotter KC, prosecuting, told the trial Mr Crewe was "an unarmed and intoxicated man who was retreating" when the attack happened.

From BBC

Nazarian, like the three other candidates, said he wants to expand the city’s network of unarmed responders to assist people experiencing nonviolent mental health crises.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• helpless
• powerless