unfamiliar

adjective

un·​fa·​mil·​iar ˌən-fə-ˈmil-yər 

: not familiar:

a

: not well-known : strange

an unfamiliar place

—often used with to

used words that were unfamiliar to me

b

: not well acquainted

unfamiliar with the subject

unfamiliarity

ˌən-fə-ˌmil-ˈyer-ə-tē 

-ˌmi-lē-ˈyer-, 

-ˈya-rə-

noun

unfamiliarly

ˌən-fə-ˈmil-yər-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of unfamiliar

• strange
• new
• novel
• unprecedented
• fresh
• original
• unknown

Examples of unfamiliar in a Sentence

He gets nervous when he is in unfamiliar surroundings.

The book is full of unfamiliar words.

Recent Examples on the Web

In other words, for younger visitors who are familiar with Pokémon characters but unfamiliar with various types of dinosaurs, the exhibition is a pathway into real science. —Nina Metz, Chicago Tribune, 23 May 2026

To help the herd accept the calf after his time away, rescuers coated him in fresh elephant dung to mask any unfamiliar scents. —Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 22 May 2026

The magnificent luminosity of the orbs announced their arrival, their glow falling unfamiliar against windowpanes, which drew the people to the street. —Literary Hub, 20 May 2026

In life, Firstman showcases a depth unfamiliar to his core audience, one used to his irreverent and comedic social media persona that’s occasionally drawn him backlash. —Matt Donnelly, Variety, 20 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unfamiliar

• unfamiliar with (something)

Rhymes for unfamiliar

• conciliar
• familiar

Kids Definition

unfamiliar

adjective

un·​fa·​mil·​iar ˌən-fə-ˈmil-yər 

1

: not well-known : strange

an unfamiliar place

2

: not well acquainted

unfamiliar with the subject

unfamiliarity

-ˌmil-ˈyar-ət-ē 

-ˌmil-ē-ˈ(y)ar-

noun