Definitions

contrarian

[kuhn-trair-ee-uhn] / kənˈtrɛər i ən /

NOUN

one who takes an opposing view

Synonyms

STRONG

antagonist

WEAK

adversary debater opponent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard announced her resignation on Friday, ending the tenure of a long-term contrarian who appeared to be at odds with President Donald Trump over the Iran war.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

Dave Ruhland of Fort Mitchell, Kentucky told Slate that he thought Massie “was being a contrarian just to be a contrarian.”

From Slate • May 20, 2026

This “extreme pessimism” is the contrarian tailwind the market has been waiting for.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

I left the theater feeling giddily put through the wringer by its contrarian depictions of heroes and fiends.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

It was all part of the Adams pattern, an iconoclastic and contrarian temperament that relished alienation.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis