PsychologyAugust 18, 2026

unrequited

un-ri-KWYE-tid

Definition

Not returned or reciprocated, specifically in the context of romantic feelings or longing.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix 'un-' (not) and the Middle English 'requiten' (to repay or reward). The word evolved to describe emotions or actions that do not receive the expected response or return.

In the news

The article uses 'unrequited' to describe intense romantic longing that is not returned by the other person, highlighting it as both a potential source of personal suffering and a historical catalyst for great art.

Limerence and the Perils of Hopeless Longing

Read the full article ↗

Psychology Today

Related words

dedifferentiation

The process by which specialized or distinct cells or neural states become less distinct,…

Psychology

distractibility

The tendency or susceptibility to have one's attention diverted by extraneous stimuli.

Psychology

limerence

A state of involuntary, intense romantic attachment to another person, often…

Psychology

numbing

A psychological state in which an individual becomes indifferent or desensitized to…

Psychology

palliate

To make a condition or symptom, such as suffering or pain, seem less severe or intense…

Psychology

palliated

To make a condition, such as pain or emotional suffering, less severe or intense without…

Psychology

Learn words like this every day

Meet new words every morning.

Newspoken pulls carefully chosen words from the day’s news — with clear definitions, context, and light review that makes them stick. Get it on your phone.