Synonyms of unfamiliar

unfamiliar

adjective

ˌən-fə-ˈmil-yər 

as in strange

not known or experienced before

ordered an unfamiliar wine and was surprised to find that it was much drier than what they were used to

Synonyms & Similar Words

• strange
• new
• novel
• unprecedented
• fresh
• original
• unknown
• unaccustomed
• unheard-of
• unique
• innovative
• nontraditional
• unconventional
• untried
• pioneering
• unused
• unworn
• trailblazing
• pathbreaking

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• familiar
• old
• tired
• hackneyed
• traditional
• conventional
• established
• tried
• time-honored
• warmed-over
• derivative
• tried-and-true
• imitative

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of unfamiliar

Watch Orion rise this month, and the familiar figure can look decidedly unfamiliar at first. — Jamie Carter, Space.com, 9 Oct. 2026

Robinson believes social media creators can help introduce audiences to unfamiliar cuisines while encouraging residents to explore restaurants outside their usual dining experiences. — Kansas City Star, 8 Oct. 2026

These changes have forged a new mindset among school officials, one that would be unfamiliar to principals of 50 years ago. — Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026

Colorado voters face a list of often-unfamiliar judges on the November ballot — judicial retention questions that determine whether each can continue serving in their positions. — Elise Schmelzer, Denver Post, 7 Oct. 2026