un-American

adjective

un-Amer·​i·​can ˌən-ə-ˈmer-ə-kən 

: 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

This series may seem like an odd choice to recommend during the July 4 holiday, particularly when the main characters are driven by values that are pointedly un-American. — Maira Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026

In this un-American endeavor, the Court’s conservative majority is proving itself, once again, Trump’s willing accomplice. — Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 26 June 2026

The whole process is downright un-American. — Steven Greenhut, Oc Register, 15 May 2026

Killing people on the high seas, supporting clearly unlawful military operations, and participating in the destruction of civilian infrastructure — while civilians are present — are wrong and un-American. — Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1818, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for un-American

• american

Kids Definition

un-American

adjective

un-Amer·​i·​can

ˌən-ə-ˈmer-ə-kən

: not American