English Reference
Adjective

unfounded

adj.
C1 Advanced US /ənˈfaʊndɪd/ UK /ʌnfˈaʊndɪd/ un·found·ed

adj.not based on facts or evidence. You use this to describe a worry, a rumor, or an idea that is not true.

adj.lacking a sound basis in fact or evidence. Often describes claims, fears, or allegations that have no empirical support.


SIMPLE

The rumors about the company closing were completely unfounded.

CONTEXTUAL

The investigation concluded that the allegations of corruption were unfounded and based on hearsay.

COMPLEX

Despite the widespread panic, scientific data proved that the public's fears regarding the environmental impact were largely unfounded and based on a misunderstanding of the report.

Usage

Typically used to modify nouns like 'rumors', 'fears', 'claims', or 'allegations'.

In response to the film-makers’ requests for comment, Boeing stated that some of the claims against the company “remain unfounded” and that “others are issues that Boeing thoroughly addressed or continues to improve upon”.

The Guardian· 19 Aug 2026

Grifols, a Spanish company, said “unfounded attention” on its blood plasma business in Canada had led it to temporarily end collections at 17 clinics.

The New York Times· 13 Aug 2026

From un- + founded.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated