unconventional

adjective

un·​con·​ven·​tion·​al

ˌən-kən-ˈven(t)-sh(ə-)nəl

 

: not conventional : not bound by or in accordance with convention : being out of the ordinary

an unconventional outfit

an unconventional thinker

unconventionality

ˌən-kən-ˌven(t)-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

noun

unconventionally adverb

Synonyms

• dissentient
• dissenting
• dissident
• heretical
• heretic
• heterodox
• iconoclastic
• maverick
• nonconformist
• nonorthodox
• out-there
• unorthodox

Examples of unconventional in a Sentence

Her lifestyle is rather unconventional.

the Shakers acquired their name because of their unconventional practice of dancing with shaking movements during worship

Recent Examples on the Web

This novel design and other touches are the creations of General Motor's design team of five women, led by two who came to GM with unconventional backgrounds. —Jamie L. Lareau, Detroit Free Press, 5 Nov. 2024

Under this new gallery model, Fitzpatrick will remain based in Paris and mount exhibitions at unconventional venues in Paris and around the world. —Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 5 Nov. 2024

An Australian family's unconventional death notice is being talked about around the world. —Becca Longmire, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024

The success of the project, particularly the crucial role played by citizen scientists, demonstrates the importance of diverse perspectives and unconventional thinking in SETI research. —Tom Howarth follow, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

unconventional

adjective

un·​con·​ven·​tion·​al ˌən-kən-ˈvench-nəl 

-ən-ᵊl

: not conventional : not bound by or in agreement with convention

unconventional behavior

unconventionality

-ˌven-chə-ˈnal-ət-ē 

noun

unconventionally

-ˈvench-nə-lē

-ən-ᵊl-ē

adverb