uncharted
un-CHAR-ted
/ʌnˈtʃɑːr.tɪd/
Not mapped or surveyed; unknown.
Suggests a lack of previous exploration or records.
The story behind the word. A 'chart' was originally a map used by sailors. 'Uncharted' literally meant a part of the sea that had no map to guide ships through it.
Word relationships
- unmapped: Unmapped is more literal; uncharted can be metaphorical.
- unexplored: Unexplored means people haven't been there; uncharted means no one has written it down yet.
- mapped: Clearly documented and surveyed.
- familiar: Well-known and common.
Commonly confused with
- unchartered: Unchartered means lacking a legal charter (like a bank); uncharted means not on a map.
Collocations
- uncharted territory
- uncharted waters
- remain uncharted
- largely uncharted
Example sentences
- "The submersible descended into uncharted waters where no human had ever been." Exploring the deep ocean.
- "The company is moving into uncharted territory with its new cryptocurrency venture." Business and economics.
Memory hook
If there is no 'Chart', it is 'Un-charted'. Not on the map.
When not to use
Don't use for something that is simply 'new' to you but well-known to others.
Fun facts
- In the 16th century, 'uncharted' was often used to describe the 'Terra Incognita' on early world maps.
Explore more words
intrepid, unforeseen, pioneer, unconstrained, venture, unprecedented
Also appears in
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