unsanctioned

adjective

un·​sanc·​tioned ˌən-ˈsaŋ(k)-shənd How to pronounce unsanctioned (audio)
Synonyms of unsanctionednext
: lacking effective or authoritative approval or consent : not sanctioned
an unsanctioned boxing match
… a solution unsanctioned by educated custom …—Edward Finegan

Examples of unsanctioned 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.
Rather than identify the problem, as it was supposed to, Claude used an unsanctioned work-around without telling researchers. — Elias Wachtel, The Atlantic, 25 Apr. 2026 In court filings associated with the case, attorneys representing UConn argued that the university had no duty to protect students at unsanctioned events. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2026 Digital flyers for this unsanctioned event have been circulating on social media, according to the Fresno Police Department. — Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 1 May 2026 Authorities in Oklahoma were looking for suspects Monday in a weekend shooting at an unsanctioned lakeside party packed with young adults that left at least 23 people injured, some critically, according to police and hospital officials. — Jamie Stengle, Los Angeles Times, 4 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for unsanctioned

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unsanctioned was in 1785

Rhymes for unsanctioned

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Browse Nearby Words

unsanctimonious
unsanctioned
unsandaled
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unsanctioned.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unsanctioned. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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