Definition of unasked

The word "unasked" has its roots in Old English. The prefix "un-" is a negation, meaning "not," and the word "asked" comes from the Old English word "ascian," which means "to ask." So, when combined, "unasked" literally means "not asked" or "without being asked." In Middle English (circa 1100-1500), the word "unasked" developed a sense of tacit consent or implied permission. For example, a person might perform an action "unasked" if they did so without being explicitly instructed to do so. Over time, the word's meaning evolved to imply a sense of spontaneity or uninvited action. Today, we use "unasked" to describe an unexpected or uninvited gift, help, or offer.