# unmanned

/ənˈmænd/ (US) · /ʌnmˈænd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

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

## Definition

operating without a person inside to control it. You use this to describe machines like drones or space probes that work on their own or by remote control.

For teachers: not carrying or operated by a person or crew. Often refers to autonomous or remotely piloted vehicles and equipment.

## Examples

- The military uses unmanned drones for surveillance.
- The space agency successfully landed an unmanned probe on the surface of the distant moon to collect soil samples.
- Advancements in artificial intelligence have accelerated the development of unmanned underwater vehicles capable of mapping the ocean floor without any direct human intervention for months at a time.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun.

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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.