unstructured

American  

[uhn-struhk-cherd] / ʌnˈstrʌk tʃərd /

adjective

1. lacking a clearly defined structure or organization.

   an unstructured conference; an unstructured school environment.

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unstructured British  

/ ʌnˈstrʌktʃəd /

adjective

1. without formal structure or systematic organization

2. without a preformed shape; (esp of clothes) loose; untailored

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Etymology

Origin of unstructured

First recorded in 1940–45; un- ¹ + structured

Example Sentences

Because condensates behave like liquids that can fuse, flow, and quickly exchange components, scientists long believed they were simple, unstructured droplets.

From Science Daily • Feb. 26, 2026

The high-intensity, unstructured nature of the game suited France's fleet-footed backline, but it was an Irish defensive lapse that led to the home side's second try.

From BBC • Feb. 5, 2026

Rousseau’s unfinished, unstructured “Reveries” resembles the herbarium in which he gathered a botanical record of his daily walks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 2, 2026

“Retirees have more unstructured hours and more opportunities to say yes — lunch with a friend, an extra coffee, a spontaneous weekend visit with the grandkids,” Grzegorczyk said.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 12, 2025

The gap was filled with recreation: unstructured time in the yard or gym.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover

Related Words

• disorganized
• unregulated