unconquered
Meaning
not having been defeated, overcome, or brought under control.
Structure
Usage
the ancient fortress remained unconquered for centuries.
her spirit was unconquered by the hardships she faced.
they explored vast, unconquered territories.
Etymology
The word "unconquered" is built upon the core verb "conquer," which entered English via Old French from the Latin verb 'conquīrere,' meaning "to seek thoroughly, to procure, to win." The Latin term itself is a compound of 'con-' (an intensive prefix) and 'quaerere' (to seek, ask). The addition of the Old English prefix 'un-' negates the state, while the Old English suffix '-ed' forms a participial adjective. Thus, the literal construction "not having been thoroughly won" evolved into the modern abstract sense of remaining undefeated, free, or not subdued.
Analysis
- un: a prefix of germanic origin (old english) meaning "not". - conquer: a verb from old french 'conquerre', ultimately from latin 'conquīrere', meaning "to seek for, procure, win". - ed: a suffix of germanic origin (old english) used to form adjectives from verbs, indicating a state or condition.