Definition of unaccounted for

In the Middle Ages, “account” used in the context of bookkeeping meant a statement of financial transactions or balances. However, by the 16th century, the word acquired another meaning. "Account" came to signify a reason or explanation for something - an account of what happened, for instance. The use of the negative prefix “un-” with the word “account” gave birth to a new word that meant “not accounted for”. From then on, “unaccounted for” referred to anything or anyone that lacked an explanation or justification. The term “unaccounted for” is commonly used in various contexts to denote an unknown or uncertain state. In accounting, it refers to unfunded or unrecorded expenses, variances, or losses. In forensic investigations, it describes evidence that cannot be linked to any suspect, highlighting a possible loophole in the investigation. In inventory management, it signifies goods that have not been accounted for, possibly due to theft or misplacement. In general, “unaccounted for” describes anything that does not conform to expectations, is unexplained, and hence, raises questions or suspicions.