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.

But could that be a contrarian signal to buy stocks?

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

So there was no contrarian buy signal — defined as timers being more pessimistic than on at least 90% of prior trading sessions.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

The results show that the standard contrarian rebalancing strategy of selling winners and buying losers holds up well over time, but we are in anything but ordinary times.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

The indicator is interpreted in a contrarian way, with higher values showing lower subsequent returns, and vice versa.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 25, 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