adj
Uncommon
undocumented
Undocumented (adj) means not recorded in official papers or written instructions. Example: “The software has several undocumented features that only power users know about.”
adj
1
Not recorded in official papers or written instructions.
"The software has several undocumented features that only power users know about."
2
Lacking the official papers required to legally live or work in a country.
"The charity offers legal advice to undocumented workers."
"One day after class I was talking to them about college, and one of my top students raised his hand and said he wasn’t sure he could go because he’s undocumented. He didn’t know if they’d let him in."
— Mark Zuckerberg, Mark Zuckerberg’s Commencement address at Harvard (2017)
How to use undocumented
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMissing the official paperwork — either technical documentation or legal immigration status.
When to use it
"Undocumented" is the standard, neutral term used for immigrants without legal status; avoid older, more loaded terms.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
undocumented immigrant
undocumented feature
undocumented worker
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Word forms
- Plural
- undocumenteds
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The software has several _____ features that only power users know about.
Etymology
From un- ("not") plus documented, the past participle of document.
Antonyms
documented
Related words
Rhymes for undocumented
vented
dented
scented
talented
demented
invented
oriented
lamented
patented
cemented
fermented
contented
See all rhymes for undocumented →
Frequently asked questions
What does “undocumented” mean?
The word “undocumented” means not recorded in official papers or written instructions. In plain terms, missing the official paperwork — either technical documentation or legal immigration status.
How do you use “undocumented” in a sentence?
Here is “undocumented” used in a sentence: “The software has several undocumented features that only power users know about.”
What part of speech is “undocumented”?
“Undocumented” is an adjective.
Is “undocumented” a common word?
“Undocumented” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “undocumented” have?
“Undocumented” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: not recorded in official papers or written instructions.
