The adjective 'unattested' describes something that lacks formal verification, substantiation, or proof. It signifies the absence of supporting evidence, endorsements, or authentication. Primarily used in legal, historical, or academic contexts, it often highlights claims, documents, or events for which concrete corroboration is unavailable. Consequently, an unattested account is rendered questionable and less credible. The term often prompts deeper scrutiny and the need for alternative sources or justifications to establish validity. This lack of proof can stem from various factors including missing records, oral traditions, or disputed authorship.
Unattested meaning with examples
- The historian cautioned against accepting the claim of a lost civilization without further investigation because the existence of the civilization remained unattested by any archaeological findings or written records. The absence of evidence raised serious doubts about the veracity of the account. Further study was necessary to confirm or debunk this speculative narrative.
- The forged signature rendered the will legally invalid as its legitimacy was unattested. The absence of proper notarization and eyewitness testimony cast doubt on its authenticity. Without these elements, the document could not be used in court. The heirs challenged the will because of this critical flaw.
- Despite the widespread rumors, the allegations against the CEO remained unattested by the audit report. Without any concrete proof from the investigation, the legal team advised against taking action. Although public opinion was already swayed, the lack of substantiated information protected him from immediate firing.
- While local folklore spoke of a hidden treasure, the claim of the buried gold remained unattested in official maps or historical accounts. The stories might hold little truth, as nothing supported it. Many treasure hunters have failed at this specific location, which has become known as 'unattested hill.'
- The researcher struggled to verify the details in the manuscript, since many important events appeared unattested in known public resources. He then decided to focus on areas in the documents where he could find other sources to verify the facts. Only then could he make a judgment as to their truth.