undetected

The word "undetected" describes something that has not been discovered, noticed, or perceived. It implies a state of being hidden, concealed, or overlooked. Think of a tiny crack forming in the foundation of a building—it might remain undetected for months, slowly growing until it becomes a serious problem.

"Undetected" isn't just about physical things; it can apply to feelings, intentions, or even abstract issues. A subtle illness might go undetected until symptoms become severe. A hidden motive could remain undetected by those around you. A thief hopes their actions will go undetected, while a scientist strives to make previously undetected particles visible with new technology.

The prefix "un-" means "not," and "detected" comes from the verb "to detect," meaning to discover or notice something. So, undetected literally means "not detected." It often carries a sense of secrecy, stealth, or simply being missed by the senses.

You might read about an undetected spy in a thriller novel, or hear about an undetected flaw in a product that leads to a recall. It's a word used when something remains hidden from view, whether intentionally or by chance. If something slips past observation, it remains undetected.