unenforced
|un-en-forced|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˌʌnɪnˈfɔrst/
🇬🇧
/ˌʌnɪnˈfɔːst/
(enforce)
compel compliance
Etymology
Etymology Information
'unenforced' originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the verb 'enforce', which comes from Old French 'enforcier', meaning 'to strengthen'.
Historical Evolution
'enforcier' transformed into the Middle English word 'enforcen', and eventually became the modern English word 'enforce'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, 'enforce' meant 'to strengthen or fortify', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to compel observance of or compliance with a law, rule, or obligation'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not enforced; lacking enforcement or implementation.
The law remained unenforced for many years.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45