unsuspecting

adjective

un·​sus·​pect·​ing ˌən-sə-ˈspek-tiŋ How to pronounce unsuspecting (audio)
Synonyms of unsuspectingnext
: unaware of any danger or threat : not suspecting
unsuspecting victims
unsuspectingly adverb

Synonyms of unsuspecting

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Examples of unsuspecting in a Sentence

sidewalk vendors selling bogus gems to unsuspecting tourists
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.
Snapping turtles also could be a threat to unsuspecting pets or people. — Hannah Smith july 1, Idaho Statesman, 1 July 2026 The Cubs were the subsequent, unsuspecting victims of a 5-1 ambush. — Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 7 July 2026 Policies that legalize bodily surveillance for youth open the door to causing harm in unsuspecting children. — Megan Gandy, The Conversation, 1 July 2026 Shocking video appeared to show unsuspecting shoppers looking at grocery items seconds before the roof collapsed, sending a large amount of water gushing into the business. — Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unsuspecting

Word History

First Known Use

1595, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unsuspecting was in 1595

Rhymes for unsuspecting

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Browse Nearby Words

unsuspectedness
unsuspecting
unsuspectingly
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Cite this Entry

“Unsuspecting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unsuspecting. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on unsuspecting

Nglish: Translation of unsuspecting for Spanish Speakers

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