unreal

adjective

un·​re·​al ˌən-ˈrē(-ə)l 

: lacking in reality, substance, or genuineness : artificial, illusory

also : incredible, fantastic

Synonyms of unreal

• absurd
• bizarre
• foolish
• insane
• crazy

Examples of unreal in a Sentence

The town seemed as unreal as a movie set.

The fashion model looked unreal, like a doll.

I think it's unreal that he survived the accident.

Recent Examples on the Web

After missing a penalty in the game’s third minute, Messi rebounded with a strike from 15 yards away in the 38th minute and an unreal dodge of multiple Austrian defenders for a second goal in the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 June 2026

But the Miz buzz is a real next level, in part because of his age and unreal hot cheese. — Tyler Estep, AJC.com, 19 June 2026

God had never mandated sickness for His image and likeness, and I could not be fooled into feeling the effects of what was simply an unreal suggestion coming to thought. — Reece Schaberg, Christian Science Monitor, 18 June 2026

Oceanfront rooms with balconies are coveted for good reason; waking up with a hot cup of coffee, salty sea air, and a view of the Atlantic is an unreal way to start the day. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 12 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unreal

• abele
• alkyl
• anneal
• appeal
• cartwheel
• conceal
• congeal
• coquille
• corneal
• cornmeal
• flywheel
• genteel

Kids Definition

unreal

adjective

un·​re·​al ˌən-ˈrē(-ə)l 

-ˈri(-ə)l, 

ˈən-

1

: not real, actual, or genuine : illusory

2

: fantastic sense 2