NONNATURAL Synonyms: 16 Similar and Opposite Words

nonnatural

adjective

ˌnän-ˈna-chə-rəl

Definition of nonnatural

as in synthetic

produced by humans rather than natural processes pure vanilla extract that was made without any nonnatural ingredients

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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 nonnatural Much of synthetic biology involves genetic engineering to introduce networks of genes that give cells new functions, such as manufacturing enzymes to make a nonnatural molecule. — Philip Ball, Scientific American, 18 Apr. 2023 The latter discipline has racked up impressive achievements in retooling cells for nonnatural tasks—for example, programming bacteria to glow in the presence of pollutants and other chemicals. — Philip Ball, Scientific American, 18 Apr. 2023 The increase in mortality has been especially stark among working-age males, with increases in death rates from alcohol, violence, and other nonnatural causes. — Nicholas Gordon, Fortune, 3 Apr. 2023 Only one nonnatural death of an inmate has ever been reported at the prison. — Joseph Simonson, Washington Examiner, 21 Apr. 2021

Recent Examples of Synonyms for nonnatural

Adjective

An accident in the Chihuahua mountains On April 19, the Chihuahua Attorney General’s Office reported the dismantling of a synthetic drug lab in the municipality of Morelos, in the mountains of that state.

— María Verza, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2026
But every year, millions end up in a landfill after a single use, and many are made from synthetic plastics that don't easily break down, contributing to environmental pollution.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of synthetic

Adjective

Key Takeaways These artificial channels are up to five times more selective for lithium, offering a simpler way to extract the critical battery material.

— Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 28 Oct. 2026
Stocks in the artificial-intelligence industry led Wall Street higher on Tuesday, as their yo-yo moves swing back upward.

— Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of artificial

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nonnatives

nonnatural

nonnecessities

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“Nonnatural.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/nonnatural. Accessed 29 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of nonnatural

adjective

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