What does unswitched mean on a surge protector?

"Switched" means that components can be switched on and off via the master power switch. "Unswitched" means that power is always on, and no switch is available to toggle this.

But the term can vary with components. For example, a UPS has unswitched receptacles. That means power is connected directly to AC mains. Switching and battery backup not provided.

Unswitched on some power strips (surge protector and not protector types) means an appliance that draws power from that receptacle then causes power to be switched on for other receptacles. This feature makes possible powering on a TV or computer. Resulting in power applied to the cable box, DVR, printer, or monitor. Power off that TV or computer. Then power to other receptacles is disconnected.