# unearthed

/əˈnɝθt/ (US) · /ʌnˈɜːθd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unearthed
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

to find something that was hidden or buried. You use this when someone discovers old objects in the ground or finds lost information.

For teachers: to dig up or bring to light something previously buried or hidden. Often used figuratively to describe the discovery of information, evidence, or long-forgotten facts.

## Examples

- The dog unearthed a large bone in the garden.
- Journalists unearthed several documents that proved the company knew about the problem years ago.
- Archaeologists working at the site unearthed a series of remarkably well-preserved mosaics that provide new insights into daily life during the late Roman period.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and requires a direct object. While literally referring to digging, it is frequently applied to investigative research.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.