unduly
|un-du-ly|
C1
🇺🇸
/ʌnˈduːli/
🇬🇧
/ʌnˈdjuːli/
(undue)
excessively
Etymology
Etymology Information
'unduly' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'undue,' where 'un-' meant 'not' and 'due' meant 'appropriate or fitting.'
Historical Evolution
'undue' changed from the Old French word 'undue' and eventually became the modern English word 'unduly.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'not appropriate or fitting,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'excessively or unreasonably.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
to an unwarranted degree; excessively.
The report was unduly critical of the new policy.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39