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Showing results for unfamiliar.
Definitions

unfamiliar

[uhn-fuh-mil-yer] / ˌʌn fəˈmɪl yər /
ADJECTIVE
different, strange
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bizarre curious exotic foreign new obscure peculiar unaccustomed unexpected unexplored unknown unusual
WEAK
alien anomalous extraordinary fantastic little-known novel original out-of-the-way outlandish recondite remarkable remote uncommon uninvestigated
Antonyms
STRONGEST
common familiar known normal ordinary regular standard usual
WEAK
experienced knowing versed
ADJECTIVE
inexperienced; not knowing about
Synonyms
STRONGEST
oblivious unaccustomed unaware unknown
WEAK
ignorant incognizant inconversant not associated not versed in out of contact unacquainted unconversant uninformed uninitiated uninstructed unknowing unpracticed unskilled unversed unwitting
Antonyms
STRONGEST
aware
WEAK
experienced familiar knowing known usual versed

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.

Even without giving speeches or interviews, Powell will introduce an unfamiliar dynamic by sitting in the room as those debates unfold.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 3, 2026

Even the serial champions are on unfamiliar terrain.

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026

However, the extreme conditions in these environments likely force these familiar compounds into exotic and unfamiliar forms.

From Science Daily • Apr. 21, 2026

Remaining in an existing home has powerful appeal compared with uprooting one’s life and relocating to somewhere new and unfamiliar.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

The actions for this rhyme are indicative of life and culture in India, and include motions that are both familiar and unfamiliar to children’s game songs in the U.S.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin

Vocabulary lists containing unfamiliar

TEKS ELAR Academic Vocabulary List (5th-7th grades)

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!