different between unknown vs unbeknown

English

Etymology

From un- +? known, past participle of know. Compare Old English ungecnawen.

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA^(key): /?n?n??n/
• (US) enPR: ?n-n?n?, IPA^(key): /?n?no?n/

Adjective

unknown (comparative more unknown, superlative most unknown)

1. (sometimes postpositive) Not known; unidentified; not well known.

   Synonyms: anonymous, unfamiliar, uncharted, undiscovered, unexplored, unidentified, unnamed, unrecognized, unrevealed, unascertained, obscure, unsung

   Antonyms: well-known, famous, known

Derived terms

• unknown quantity

Translations

Noun

unknown (plural unknowns)

1. (algebra) A variable (usually x, y or z) whose value is to be found.
2. Any thing, place, or situation about which nothing is known; an unknown fact or piece of information.
3. A person of no identity; a nonentity
   • 1965, Bob Dylan, "Like a Rolling Stone"

     How does it feel

     To be on your own

     With no direction home

     Like a complete unknown

     Like a rolling stone?

Translations

Verb

unknown

1. past participle of unknow

English

Alternative forms

• unbeknownst

Etymology

From un- +? beknown.

Pronunciation

• (Received Pronunciation) IPA^(key): /?nb??n??n/
• (General American) IPA^(key): /??nb??no?n/
• Hyphenation: un?be?known

Adjective

unbeknown (comparative more unbeknown, superlative most unbeknown)

1. Not beknown.

Translations