unconventional

[ uhn-kuhn-ven-shuh-nl ]

adjective

1. not conventional; not bound by or conforming to convention, rule, or precedent; free from conventionality:

   an unconventional artist; an unconventional use of material.

   Synonyms: idiosyncratic, individualistic, atypical, eccentric

unconventional

/ ˌʌnkənˈvɛnʃənəl /

adjective

1. not conforming to accepted rules or standards

Derived Forms

• ˌunconˌventionˈality, noun
• ˌunconˈventionally, adverb

Other Words From

• uncon·vention·al·ist noun
• uncon·vention·al·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of unconventional¹

First recorded in 1830–40; un- ¹ + conventional

Example Sentences

He’s trying to show he belongs after making the unconventional move from position coach to head coach.

From Los Angeles Times

This is clear in her use of unconventional materials like spoons, rosette prize ribbons, belts and silver plates — everyday items that she recontextualizes to stunning effect in dresses, skirts, and tops.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s an unconventional financing model for a piece of musical theater.

From Los Angeles Times

Once the Trump team won what was seen as an improbable victory, they decided on an unconventional approach and fired Christie.

From BBC

Davidson is known for his dark sense of humor, Staten Island accent and unconventional magnetism.

From Salon

Related Words

• atypical
• bizarre
• eccentric
• idiosyncratic
• individualistic
• offbeat
• original
• unique
• unorthodox
• unusual