un-American

adjective

un-Amer·​i·​can ˌən-ə-ˈmer-ə-kən How to pronounce un-American (audio)
: not American : not characteristic of or consistent with American customs, principles, or traditions

Examples of un-American in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Those who helped him make America un-American must answer for themselves. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 29 Jan. 2026 Kelly called it outrageous and un-American. Quil Lawrence, NPR, 5 Jan. 2026 There is nothing more un-American than that. Chris Boccia, ABC News, 5 Jan. 2026 How un-American can Sam Altman be if Disney loves him? Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 12 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for un-American

Word History

First Known Use

1818, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of un-American was in 1818

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Cite this Entry

“Un-American.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/un-American. Accessed 10 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

un-American

adjective
un-Amer·​i·​can
ˌən-ə-ˈmer-ə-kən
: not American
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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