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

His designs could make women and men look garish, in their unorthodox but cheesy materials (crystal mesh, latex, S&M buckles). —Rachel Tashjian, CNN Money, 5 Feb. 2026

Much like the film’s unorthodox costumes, Margot Robbie is taking creative liberties with her method dressing. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 4 Feb. 2026

Embrace your unorthodox skills! —Usa Today, USA Today, 4 Feb. 2026

Davis, who finished with 13 points and three 3-pointers, nailed the shot to spark a 10-0 Illinois run, and Ivišić went viral on social media for the unorthodox spike pass. —Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 3 Feb. 2026

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