UNBEKNOWN

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does unbeknown mean? 

• UNBEKNOWN (adjective)
  The adjective UNBEKNOWN has 1 sense:

1. (usually used with 'to') occurring or existing without the knowledge of

  Familiarity information: UNBEKNOWN used as an adjective is very rare.

• UNBEKNOWN (adverb)
  The adverb UNBEKNOWN has 1 sense:

1. without someone's knowledge

  Familiarity information: UNBEKNOWN used as an adverb is very rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• UNBEKNOWN (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

(usually used with 'to') occurring or existing without the knowledge of

Synonyms:

unbeknown; unbeknownst

Context example:

she had been ill for months, unbeknownst to the family

Similar:

unknown (not known)

• UNBEKNOWN (adverb)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Without someone's knowledge

Synonyms:

unbeknown; unbeknownst

Context example:

unbeknownst to me, she made all the arrangements

 Context examples 

You wouldn't wish to make unpleasantness. I know what a friendly heart you've got; but having only known me on my umble footing (on my umblest I should say, for I am very umble still), you might, unbeknown, go against me rather, with my Agnes.

(David Copperfield, by Charles Dickens)