unusual

adjective

ˌən-ˈyü-zhə-wəl How to pronounce unusual (audio)
Definition of unusualnext
1
as in uncommon
noticeably different from what is generally found or experienced we found some unusual shells by the high-tide mark while combing the beach

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in extraordinary
being out of the ordinary the famously arrogant actor accepted his award with unusual grace and humility

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example 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 unusual Musk’s unusual lock-up structure presents investors with a case of extremes, giving the stock a ballast of stability for the first year, followed by the potential for a supernova event. — Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 3 July 2026 As with every July 4, a lot of fireworks and hot dogs will be enjoyed this weekend coast to coast, but for this special year celebrating 250 years of US nationhood, there are also some unique and unusual happenings taking place. — Maureen O'Hare, CNN Money, 4 July 2026 Indeed, that has led to the highly unusual situation of Australia not being the defending champions in either women’s World Cup, with India holding the 50-over title and New Zealand the T20 crown. — Paul Newman, New York Times, 5 July 2026 Marine biologist Mike Heithaus of Florida International University told Fox News Digital shark bites remain unusual, even during the busy summer beach season. — Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unusual
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unusual
  1. uncommon
  2. extraordinary
  3. strange
  4. unique
  5. funny
  6. exceptional
  7. weird
  8. rare
Adjective
  • An inconclusive ballistics result is not uncommon, as the analysis depends on the size and condition of the bullet fragments recovered.
    — Nicki Brown, CNN Money, 6 July 2026
  • This trend reflects companies' need to expand and contract rapidly, prompting landlords to prebuild and furnish spaces, a practice uncommon just five years ago.
    — Jeffrey Steele, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026
Definition of uncommon
Adjective
  • This year’s celebration comes on the heels of a late June warehouse fire in Boyle Heights that released extraordinary amounts of soot and smoke across the county, on par with pollution generated by the previous year’s wildfires.
    — Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026
  • These were moments of extraordinary dissent against the British government by American colonists.
    — Dana Taylor, USA Today, 3 July 2026
Definition of extraordinary
Adjective
  • Others may miss the warmth of a person who can read the room, handle a strange request or help when something goes wrong.
    — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026
  • Canada coach Jesse Marsch gives strange interview after Morocco World Cup loss.
    — Alex Connor, USA Today, 5 July 2026
Definition of strange
Adjective
  • These efforts are intended to validate the unique aspects of its underground deployment strategy before commercial operation.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 8 July 2026
  • Head to the shop near the Duomo to watch the artisans at work and buy a unique piece.
    — Laura Itzkowitz, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2026
Definition of unique
Adjective
  • Watching improv is reliably funny because performers work without a script.
    — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 1 July 2026
  • But figuring out how to do all that while being funny at the same time?
    — Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 30 June 2026
Definition of funny
Adjective
  • Just down the road, Beefbar at Hotel Lou Pinet offers a relaxed ambiance and exceptional dishes.
    — Karli Poliziani, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026
  • Read More TopicsTaylor Swift Vogue Weddings An all-access invitation to the exceptional and inspirational, plus planning tips and advice.
    — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 4 July 2026
Definition of exceptional
Adjective
  • As the two form a close bond, Laila discovers there's some weird business going on within the house that threatens both of them.
    — Brian Truitt, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • Confessions kicked off one of the weirdest eras in a career that has never been stingy with weirdness.
    — Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 3 July 2026
Definition of weird
Adjective
  • Ireland Ireland offers a rare cross-generational appeal, where estate activities and rugged landscapes make for an ideal family itinerary.
    — Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
  • Thieves stole $25,000 worth of rare Pokémon cards after breaking into an Eagan, Minnesota, claw machine arcade last weekend, employees said.
    — Jason Rantala, CBS News, 1 July 2026
Definition of rare

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Cite this Entry

“Unusual.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unusual. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of unusual for Spanish Speakers

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