# unprocessed

/ənˈpɹɔˌsɛst/ (US) · /ʌnpɹˈəʊsɛst/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unprocessed
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

still in its natural state, not changed by machines, cooking, or chemicals. You use it mostly for food or materials that are still raw and natural.

For teachers: not subjected to industrial treatment, refinement, or chemical alteration; remaining in a natural or raw state. Typically describes foods, raw materials, or raw data that retain their original form.

## Examples

- She prefers unprocessed foods like fresh fruit and vegetables.
- The store sells unprocessed honey straight from local farms without added sugar.
- Despite marketing claims, many products labelled natural still contain additives, unlike truly unprocessed ingredients sourced directly from growers.

## Synonyms

raw

## Antonyms

processed

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies; predicative use after 'be' or 'remain' is also common.

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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.