unlicensed

adjective

un·​li·​censed ˌən-ˈlī-sᵊn(t)st How to pronounce unlicensed (audio)
Synonyms of unlicensednext
: not licensed: such as
a
: not authorized or permitted by a license
unlicensed merchandise
an unlicensed firearm
the unlicensed reproduction of books
b
: operating without a license
unlicensed vendors
an unlicensed electrician
unlicensed brokers
unlicensed drivers

Examples of unlicensed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The unlicensed recovery center underworld ranges from places that pamper patients with space and very personal care by licensed medical professionals to places that cram patients into spaces minded by people with limited or no medical training. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 31 Aug. 2026 And in recent weeks, concerns about that history — including accusations of nonpayment and unlicensed screenings at the Kingsway — have traveled west through something of an industry whisper network, increasingly spilling into public view. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 26 Aug. 2026 States and tribal groups accuse them of offering an unlicensed gambling product under the guise of being a financial asset. — Dan Bernstein, Sportico.com, 24 Aug. 2026 Watson also warned county residents to be on the lookout for unlicensed contractors. — Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 22 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unlicensed

Word History

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unlicensed was in 1577

Rhymes for unlicensed

See All Rhymes for unlicensed

Browse Nearby Words

unliberated
unlicensed
unlicked
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unlicensed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unlicensed. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

unlicensed

adjective
un·​li·​censed
variants or chiefly British unlicenced
-ˈlīs-ᵊn(t)st
: not licensed
especially, of a drug : not approved for use by the appropriate regulating authority (as the Food and Drug Administration in the United States)

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