unusual

adjective

un·​usu·​al ˌən-ˈyü-zhə-wəl How to pronounce unusual (audio)
-zhəl;
-ˈyüzh-wəl
: not usual : uncommon, rare
unusually adverb
unusualness noun

Examples of unusual in a Sentence

It's not unusual for him to stay late at work. a scene of unusual beauty She has an unusual name.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In birds, the disease causes symptoms including swelling to the head, watery eyes and unusual movement. Katherine Hignett, Forbes, 28 Dec. 2024 That goal was an unusual moment of offensive clarity from Dyche’s side, coming from their first touch in City’s box. Patrick Boyland, The Athletic, 27 Dec. 2024 In 2024, Arizona creatures found themselves in some rather unusual situations, and Arizonans were there to catch the cuteness, mayhem and head-scratching moments on camera with these viral videos. Shelby Slade, The Arizona Republic, 27 Dec. 2024 The state’s e-bike program operator has an unusual history. Jeff McDonald, The Mercury News, 27 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for unusual 

Word History

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unusual was in 1579

Dictionary Entries Near unusual

Cite this Entry

“Unusual.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unusual. Accessed 3 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

unusual

adjective
: not usual : uncommon, rare
unusually
adverb
unusualness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on unusual

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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