# unlicensed

/ənˈɫaɪsənst/ (US) · /ʌnlˈaɪsənsd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unlicensed
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

not having an official document or permission to do something. You use this to describe people or businesses that are working without a legal permit.

For teachers: lacking an official license or legal authorization to perform a specific activity or provide a service. Often used to describe professional practices or commercial sales conducted without government oversight.

## Examples

- The police closed down the unlicensed bar.
- Hiring an unlicensed contractor might save money initially, but it often leads to legal and safety issues later.
- The investigation revealed that the clinic had been operating as an unlicensed medical facility for several years, bypassing mandatory health inspections and safety protocols.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before the noun it modifies.

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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.