unusual

adjective

un·​usu·​al ˌən-ˈyü-zhə-wəl 

-zhəl;

-ˈyüzh-wəl

: not usual : uncommon, rare

unusually adverb

unusualness noun

Synonyms

• uncommon
• strange
• funny
• weird
• rare
• extraordinary

Examples of unusual in a Sentence

It's not unusual for him to stay late at work.

a scene of unusual beauty

She has an unusual name.

Recent Examples on the Web

Finally, real-time monitoring can detect unusual activity, such as multiple login attempts or access from unfamiliar IP addresses, allowing organizers to respond quickly to potential threats. 3. —Michele Dobnikar, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025

There was an unusual silence surrounding Sacramento’s apparent acquisition of Dennis Schroder on Monday after the Kings reportedly reached an agreement with the free agent point guard. —Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 1 July 2025

Thanks to the rapid ascension of brands like Ganni and Saks Potts in recent years, Danish fashion has become a global sensation with its unusual silhouettes, playful colors and patterns, and effortless, bike-ready vibe. —Stephanie Sporn, Vogue, 1 July 2025

The gunplay was unusual for the NYPD’s 6th Precinct, which had seen zero shootings this year through June 22 and zero shootings during the same time frame last year. —Rebecca White, New York Daily News, 30 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unusual

• cruel and unusual punishment

Rhymes for unusual

• biofuel
• contextual
• nonrenewal
• nonsexual
• accrual
• nonfuel
• refuel
• renewal
• cruel
• dual
• duel
• fuel

Kids Definition

unusual

adjective

un·​usu·​al ˌən-ˈyüzh-(ə-)wəl 

-ˈyü-zhəl

: not usual : uncommon, rare

unusually

-ē

adverb

unusualness noun