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

As the parties get situated in the courtroom, the unorthodox judge (Paul McCrane, excellent) comes flying out of his chambers, and the wildest, most fantasyland custody hearing ever to appear on film unfolds. —Erin Qualey, Vulture, 20 May 2026

Sporting an unorthodox two-glove look, Rai’s approach on the par-5 16th hole set up an easy two-putt for birdie to move to 8-under, two shots ahead of Schmid. —Kevin Dotson, CNN Money, 17 May 2026

The unorthodox drill proved to be a difference-maker. —Lindsay Schnell, New York Times, 15 May 2026

Please reconsider the use of artificial turf on the beachfront due to health and comfort concerns and its unorthodox placement on a beachfront. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 14 May 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