without

preposition, adverb

/wɪˈðaʊt/

Definition

A2 not having or doing something, or lacking something: I've come out without my umbrella. You look nice without make-up. He went without my knowledge. I couldn't have done it without you. She's strong without being bossy. Do start without me.formal He's not without (= he does have some) qualities. This is without a doubt (= certainly) the best Chinese food I've ever had. You shouldn't drive for more than three hours without taking a break. Without wishing to be rude (= I don't want to be rude, but), don't you think you need a hair cut? → See also do without (sth), go without (sth)Lacking thingsScarce, inadequate and not enoughEssential or necessary

(Definition of without prepositionadverb from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)