WordGarden.iountouched
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌntˈʌtʃt/
US
- /ənˈtətʃt/
Meanings
Adjective
not changed, used, handled, or affected
not emotionally moved, affected, or sympathetic
Beyond the definition
Something "untouched" has been left as it was. It has not been changed, used, damaged, or affected. Think of a quiet forest, an unopened gift, or food still sitting on a plate. In each case, the thing has been left alone and remains in its original state. You might describe a beach as "untouched by tourism," meaning it still looks natural and has not been changed by heavy visitor activity.
The word often suggests something valuable because it has stayed clean, pure, or preserved. A detective may look for "untouched" evidence at a crime scene, hoping to find clues that have not been moved or contaminated. A writer may also use it in a more emotional way, describing a person as "untouched by the harsh realities of life," meaning they have not yet been deeply affected by them.
To be untouched means to remain in its original condition, free from alteration, damage, or influence. It suggests a state of purity, preservation, and a lack of interference. Imagine a snow-covered landscape "untouched by footprints," evoking a sense of serene isolation, or an ancient artifact "untouched for centuries," hinting at a rich history preserved in time.
"Untouched" can describe physical things—like a wilderness area untouched by development or a vintage photograph untouched by fading. However, it also applies to abstract concepts. An "untouched heart" suggests someone who hasn't experienced heartbreak or betrayal. A person with "untouched ideals" holds onto their beliefs firmly, refusing to compromise them despite external pressure.
The word often carries a positive connotation, implying something valuable and worthy of protection. However, it can also be used in a more neutral sense; for example, "the food remained untouched on his plate," simply stating that he didn't eat it. Additionally, it can describe an emotional state where someone remains "unmoved," such as being untouched by a plea for mercy or a tragic story. In forensic science, "untouched evidence" is crucial because it hasn't been tampered with or contaminated, providing the most reliable information.
So, whether describing a pristine landscape, an unblemished reputation, or a piece of vital evidence, "untouched" signifies a state of original purity and freedom from external influence—a reminder of what remains unaltered in an ever-changing world.
Examples
- 1
Unfinished meal
His dinner was still untouched when the waiter came to clear the table.
- 2
Natural scene
The fresh snow in the garden looked completely untouched.
- 3
File handling
Please leave these files untouched until the manager has checked them.
- Patternleave + thing untouched
do not change or use it
- 4
Tourism impact
A few parts of the island have remained largely untouched by tourism.
- Patternuntouched by + influence
not changed or influenced by it
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Workplace cuts
Most staff lost some benefits, but our team was untouched by the cuts.
- 6
Emotional reaction
She listened to his apology, but it left her untouched.
- Patternleave + someone untouched
not affect them emotionally
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- untouched by
- remain untouched
- largely untouched
- untouched wilderness
Word family
Explore
- preservation
- natural state
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- untouchedadjective