Synonyms of unknown

unknown

adjective

ˌən-ˈnōn 

1

as in unfamiliar

happening or existing without one's knowledge

unknown to me was the fact that while I was out, my family was hurriedly preparing a surprise birthday party

Synonyms & Similar Words

• unfamiliar
• unbeknownst
• unrecognized
• unsuspected
• unaware
• ignorant
• unperceived
• unmindful
• unsuspecting
• unconscious
• unknowing
• unwitting
• unacquainted

2

as in novel

not known or experienced before

becoming a father brought unknown joy to his life

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

3

as in obscure

not widely known

looking for a relatively unknown singer to record the song

Synonyms & Similar Words

• obscure
• unrecognized
• unsung
• anonymous
• unpopular
• no-name
• nameless
• uncelebrated
• unfamous
• minor
• unimportant
• forgotten
• insignificant
• noteless
• unnoticed
• unremarkable
• undistinguished
• unrecognizable
• unexceptional
• unnoticeable
• unremembered
• faceless
• unnewsworthy

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• prominent
• famous
• notorious
• celebrated
• renowned
• famed
• legendary
• noted
• fabled
• great
• fabulous
• outstanding
• remarkable
• notable
• eminent
• infamous
• distinguished
• well-known
• important
• exceptional
• major
• illustrious
• significant
• prestigious
• honorable
• influential
• reputable
• noteworthy
• respectable
• leading
• preferred
• popular
• favorite
• estimable
• newsworthy

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of unknown

Investigators determined Sabini sustained a fatal injury when, for unknown reasons, his bicycle veered into the traffic lane, colliding with a motor vehicle traveling in the same direction. — Ashley Sharp, CBS News, 18 Sep. 2026

But while the producers love it, but can’t seem to sell a studio on the film starring the then-unknown Stallone, nor will Stallone abandon his dream of taking on the titular role. — Marcus Jones, IndieWire, 18 Sep. 2026

New data suggest evidence of previously unknown tunnels and chambers extend beyond Tutankhamun’s tomb in Egypt, which could theoretically house the remains of Nefertiti, according to an exclusive Nature report. — Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 18 Sep. 2026

Who killed Lizzie’s father and stepmother remains unknown, and the murder weapon was never found. — Marina Watts, Entertainment Weekly, 18 Sep. 2026