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 unconventional column is based on value pluralism — the idea that each of us has multiple values that are equally valid but that often conflict with each other. —Sigal Samuel, Vox, 18 Nov. 2024

This is an example of the possible results from applying unconventional networking at scale: a senior services provider teaming up with community colleges, workforce development agencies, large employers and governmental bodies to affect societal change. —Tylor Taylor, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Sandler stars as marine veterinarian Henry, who, despite all the odds, pursues Lucy and their unconventional love story. —Charna Flam, People.com, 5 Nov. 2024

Reisman was known to be unconventional in the sport, yet won two U.S. Men’s Singles Championships in 1958 and 1960 and more than 20 international and national titles. —Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 5 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