Unaccompanied

Unaccompanied is an adjective meaning not accompanied by another person or not supported or protected; lacking accompaniment in a given activity. It can refer to people, actions, or objects.

In people-related contexts, the term unaccompanied minor describes a child traveling without a parent or guardian, often in aviation or border control, requiring special procedures for safety and welfare. In immigration and child protection, unaccompanied asylum-seeking children refer to minors who arrive without a guardian and seek refugee protections, requiring safeguarding measures.

In music, unaccompanied indicates a performance without instrumental or other vocal accompaniment, such as unaccompanied choral or solo singing. The term is often used interchangeably with a cappella in common language, though technically a cappella refers to singing without instrumental accompaniment.

In travel and logistics, unaccompanied can describe baggage or items that are not accompanied by their owner, or a shipment left unattended. In sports or other contexts, it can describe a route, excursion, or passage conducted without a guide or escort.

Etymology: from un- (not) + accompanied, dating from Middle English; used across disciplines to denote absence of accompaniment. The term is neutral and descriptive, with usage varying by field.