unquestioning

Unquestioning is an English adjective describing a stance, attitude, or behavior that does not involve questioning or doubt. It characterizes acceptance of ideas, statements, rules, or authority without hesitation. The word is often used with nouns such as loyalty, obedience, trust, faith, or conformity: for example, unquestioning loyalty or unquestioning obedience.

The term can be neutral, highlighting reliability and steadfastness, but more often carries a critical undertone, implying a lack of critical thinking or skepticism. In political, religious, or organizational contexts, unquestioning compliance may suggest conformity that discourages inquiry. Examples include an unquestioning follower or unquestioning compliance.

Etymology and usage notes: unquestioning is formed from the prefix un- plus the present participle questioning. It is distinct from unquestionable, which means beyond question or not open to doubt, and from unquestioned, meaning not questioned or accepted as given. The choice between unquestioning and related forms can affect nuance: unquestioning emphasizes the ongoing behavior or attitude; unquestionable asserts a claim’s undeniability; unquestioned describes something taken as given without examination.