Definition

Adjective 1. Lacking a label or tag: Not having any identifying mark, sticker, or tag attached to indicate contents, ownership, destination, or other information. - Example: The unlabelled boxes in the attic were a mystery. 2. Not classified or categorized: Not assigned to a specific named group or category, often implying a lack of official identification or a generic status. - Example: The scientist studied the unlabelled samples under the microscope.

Usage

• Used to describe physical objects that do not bear a label.
• Can describe data, samples, or items that are not formally identified or categorized.
• Often used in contexts like luggage handling, scientific research, storage, and retail.

Examples

• Physical Objects:
  • All unlabelled chemicals must be handled with extreme caution.
  • Passengers are advised not to check in unlabelled baggage.
• Abstract/Data Context:
  • The survey included an unlabelled "other" option for responses.
  • In machine learning, an unlabelled dataset is used for unsupervised learning.

Advanced Usage

• "To go unlabelled": To remain without a label or proper identification.
  • Many historical artifacts in the collection have gone unlabelled for decades.
• In a figurative sense, it can describe something not clearly defined or named.
  • He felt an unlabelled anxiety about the future.

Variants and Related Words

• Unlabeled (adjective): The preferred spelling in American English. It has the same meaning as 'unlabelled'.
  • The unlabeled jar contained a strange powder.
• Label (noun/verb): The root word. A label is a piece of paper or other material that gives information about the object it is attached to. To label is to attach such an item.
• Mislabeled (adjective): Incorrectly labelled.
  • The mislabeled package was sent to the wrong department.

Synonyms

• Unmarked: Having no identifying marks.
• Unidentified: Not recognized or established.
• Untagged: Not fitted with a tag.
• Generic: Not having a brand name; not specific.

Antonyms

• Labelled/Labeled: Having a label attached.
• Marked: Having a visible mark or indication.
• Tagged: Fitted with a tag.
• Identified: Recognized and named.

Notes on Usage

• Spelling: 'Unlabelled' is the standard spelling in British English. The American English spelling is 'unlabeled' (one 'l').
• The word is typically used in a neutral or descriptive sense, but it can imply negligence or a potential problem (e.g., lost luggage, safety hazards with chemicals).

Adjective

1. lacking a label or tag
   • unlabeled luggage is liable to be lost