unearned

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Social Security Administration considers free shelter to be unearned income, although he can avoid this reduction if he pays his fair share of household expenses.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 2026

But every once in a while, we get a little wink, an ounce of good luck, an unearned gift, a happy accident, and this recipe falls in that category.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

Ultimately, Franco jettisons his characters for the sake of unearned plot twists that leave the viewer feeling only icky.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

Imposters like Jonathan Carley, who was fined £500 for dressing as a rear admiral without permission, complete with an array of impressive but unearned medals he bought online.

From BBC • Jan. 21, 2026

Cancer Perks are the little things cancer kids get that regular kids don’t: basketballs signed by sports heroes, free passes on late homework, unearned driver’s licenses, etc.

From "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green