UNNATURAL Synonyms: 172 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'unnatural' distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words anomalous and irregular are common synonyms of unnatural . While all three words mean "not conforming to rule, law, or custom," unnatural suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society. // prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty

Q: When could 'anomalous' be used to replace 'unnatural'?

The meanings of anomalous and unnatural largely overlap; however, anomalous implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence. // her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization

Q: When is 'irregular' a more appropriate choice than 'unnatural'?

The words irregular and unnatural are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, irregular implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct. // concerned about his irregular behavior

unnatural

adjective

ˌən-ˈna-chə-rəl

Definition of unnatural next

as in abnormal

departing from some accepted standard of what is normal the documentary evinces an unnatural obsession with the gruesome details of the disaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in strained

lacking in natural or spontaneous quality just before the debate, the candidates flashed unnatural smiles for the cameras

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word unnatural distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words anomalous and irregular are common synonyms of unnatural. While all three words mean "not conforming to rule, law, or custom," unnatural suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society.

prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty

When could anomalous be used to replace unnatural?

The meanings of anomalous and unnatural largely overlap; however, anomalous implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence.

her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization

When is irregular a more appropriate choice than unnatural?

The words irregular and unnatural are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, irregular implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct.

concerned about his irregular behavior

Examples Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of unnatural Features such as lips and eyes ballooned to unnatural proportions, and skin textures became metallic and surreal. —

Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024 Other telltale signs include unrealistic mouth movements, blinking patterns, and unnatural looking body parts. —

Leo Schwartz, Fortune, 2 Dec. 2024 While there are certainly products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. —

Sarah Hoffmann, Allure, 22 Dec. 2024 The world’s longest election, wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, soaring inflation and wealth inequality at home, and a host of other natural and unnatural disasters made 2024 ripe for whiskey content. —

Paul Feinstein, The Hollywood Reporter, 18 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for unnatural

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unnatural

Adjective

Biden’s election-year efforts at Trump-proofing his legacy help explain this, especially the abnormal 97-rule surge in Spring 2024.

Clyde Wayne Crews Jr., Forbes, 29 Dec. 2024
Chronic stress may disrupt the endocrine system (hormone system), causing abnormal function of your organs, including your skin.

Wendy Wisner, Health, 28 Dec. 2024