unearthed

Unearthed is the past participle and simple past tense of unearth, a verb meaning to remove something buried in the ground or to reveal something that was hidden. Literally, it describes objects recovered from beneath the surface; figuratively, it describes information or evidence brought to light.

Originating from the prefix un- + earth, the term dates from Middle English and has since extended from physical digging to the discovery of facts. In modern usage, a discovery can be described as unearthed when it changes understanding or reveals previously unknown details.

As a verb, unearthed is commonly used in archaeology, journalism, history, and law to denote uncovering or disclosure. It can also function as an adjective, as in "the unearthed manuscript." Synonyms include reveal, disclose; related terms with more specific senses include disinter, exhume, and excavate. The word carries a neutral to positive connotation of discovery, rather than judgment about the findings.