# unprotected

/ˌənpɹəˈtɛktɪd/ (US) · /ʌnpɹətˈɛktɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

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

## Definition

not covered or kept safe from harm, weather, or danger. You use this when something has no shield or help to stop it from being hurt.

For teachers: lacking a physical or legal barrier against harm, damage, or exposure. Often used predicatively after 'be' or 'remain' to describe a state of vulnerability.

## Examples

- You should not leave your skin unprotected in the sun.
- The coastal village remained unprotected from the storm because the sea wall was still under construction.
- Without a robust firewall and encrypted connection, your sensitive personal data remains unprotected against sophisticated cyberattacks that target public networks.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'from' or 'against' to specify the source of danger.

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