unorthodox

adjective

un·​or·​tho·​dox ˌən-ˈȯr-thə-ˌdäks 

: not orthodox : different from established or conventional doctrine, or practices, customs, or opinion

unorthodox views/beliefs

She's known for using unorthodox methods to achieve her goals.

unorthodoxly adverb

Synonyms of unorthodox

• unconventional
• dissident
• out-there

Examples of unorthodox in a Sentence

a time when people with unorthodox religious views were banished from the colony

raised by an aunt, whose unorthodox parenting practices made for a strange but fun childhood

Recent Examples on the Web

But this isn't the first electronic music fest to introduce fine dining in an unorthodox setting. — Lanee Lee, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

In addition to the unorthodox fabric, the style stands out further with its extra generous fit and dropped shoulder. — Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 20 July 2026

He was saved by the presence nearby of Lisandro Martinez, but the challenge was so unorthodox, clumsy and deliberate that many referees would have cautioned the defender. — Jack Lang, New York Times, 19 July 2026

Convinced the program is failing to teach the girls any real-life skills, Tatum throws out the rulebook and launches her own unorthodox agenda to prepare them for adulthood. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 17 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1629, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unorthodox

• heterodox
• homeobox
• aftershocks
• chatterbox
• chickenpox
• equinox
• firebox
• goldilocks
• hollyhocks
• interlocks
• orthodox
• paradox

Kids Definition

unorthodox

adjective

un·​or·​tho·​dox ˌən-ˈȯr-thə-ˌdäks 

ˈən-

: not orthodox : not usual

an unorthodox teaching method