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

The Mariners employed some unorthodox methods in practice this week to prepare for the Dons’ hurry-up offense. —Steve Dulas, Oc Register, 8 Nov. 2025

But his unorthodox sensibility didn’t always align with that of the entertainment industry. —Jordan Moreau, Variety, 6 Nov. 2025

The Cranes’ unorthodox methods have shed too much unnecessary blood — including their own — so Malik is instructed to get Amos off the case. —Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 5 Nov. 2025

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani had an unorthodox plan for his final nights of campaigning—showing up at the club. —Sirena Bergman, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1629, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unorthodox

• heterodox
• homeobox
• aftershocks
• chatterbox
• equinox
• goldilocks
• hollyhocks
• interlocks
• orthodox
• paradox
• tomahawks
• balks

Kids Definition

unorthodox

adjective

un·​or·​tho·​dox ˌən-ˈȯr-thə-ˌdäks 

ˈən-

: not orthodox : not usual

an unorthodox teaching method