unapproved

adjective

un·​ap·​proved ˌən-ə-ˈprüvd How to pronounce unapproved (audio)
Synonyms of unapprovednext
: not judged to be acceptable : not given official approval : not approved
drugs unapproved by the FDA
an unapproved credit card transaction
unapproved travel expenses

Examples of unapproved 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.
Mobile is obtaining water from an unapproved non-potable water source/hydrant. — Arkansas Online, 26 Oct. 2026 Several employee open cup containers with unapproved screw-top lids were on the shelf, prep table and food prep storage. — Sacbee.com, 23 Oct. 2026 Her filing claimed that Peters also gave her an unapproved drug that may have included some kind of methamphetamine. — Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 22 Oct. 2026 In a letter in September, Zambia’s ZCCM-IH accused the Emirati company of failing to provide equity funding and taking on unapproved debt. — Kelsey Warner, semafor.com, 19 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unapproved

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unapproved was in 1667

Rhymes for unapproved

See All Rhymes for unapproved

Browse Nearby Words

unappropriated
unapproved
unapt
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unapproved.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unapproved. Accessed 2 Nov. 2026.

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