What does unfurrowed mean?
Unfurrowed is an uncommon, precise adjective meaning not furrowed: smooth, level, or without creases. Its literal use can describe a stretch of land, a surface, a forehead, or a brow that has not been marked by grooves or wrinkles. The word also has a figurative sense meaning untroubled, composed, or serene, often applied to a person's expression or reaction. For example, a listener may remain unfurrowed despite unexpected news, showing calmness and freedom from visible agitation. The combination of the negative prefix un- with the past participle furrowed gives the word a direct, readily interpretable structure: it marks something as being without the lines, hollows, or disturbances associated with furrows. Although comparatively rare in everyday speech, unfurrowed is especially effective in formal prose, descriptive writing, and literary contexts because it gives visual precision to the idea of an unbroken, calm surface.
adjectiveNot furrowed; smooth, level, or free from creases. Figuratively, untroubled or serene.
- Not furrowed; smooth, level, or free from creases.
- Untroubled or serene, especially in reference to a person's expression or manner.
"She regarded him across the table with an unfurrowed brow."
"The lake lay calm and unfurrowed beneath the morning sky."
"He listened with an unfurrowed expression, showing no sign of alarm."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unfurrowed come from?
Unfurrowed is a native English formation made from the prefix un- and the past participle furrowed. Furrow derives from Old English furch, meaning a groove, trench, or furrow, and the compound literally means 'not furrowed.' Its figurative use developed by applying the physical image of a smooth, unmarked surface to a person's composed expression or manner.
Related word forms
How unfurrowed is actually used
This is a relatively uncommon and somewhat literary word. Its literal use is especially appropriate for land, skin, or a face, while its figurative use suggests a person whose expression or manner is calm and free from anxiety.
Easily confused with unfurrowed
A furrowed surface or face has grooves, ridges, or creases, whereas an unfurrowed one is smooth and unmarked.