Definition of nonnaturalnext
as in synthetic
produced by humans rather than natural processes pure vanilla extract that was made without any nonnatural ingredients

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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.
Recent Examples of nonnatural Much of synthetic biology involves genetic engineering to introduce networks of genes that give cells new functions, such as manufacturing enzymes to make a nonnatural molecule. Philip Ball, Scientific American, 18 Apr. 2023 The latter discipline has racked up impressive achievements in retooling cells for nonnatural tasks—for example, programming bacteria to glow in the presence of pollutants and other chemicals. Philip Ball, Scientific American, 18 Apr. 2023 The increase in mortality has been especially stark among working-age males, with increases in death rates from alcohol, violence, and other nonnatural causes. Nicholas Gordon, Fortune, 3 Apr. 2023 Only one nonnatural death of an inmate has ever been reported at the prison. Joseph Simonson, Washington Examiner, 21 Apr. 2021
Recent Examples of Synonyms for nonnatural
Adjective
  • Rather, this is a dangerous, shape-shifting synthetic entity that ravaged their entire planet.
    Siddhant Adlakha, Vulture, 24 Aug. 2026
  • And because the stretch is mechanical rather than synthetic, this construction maintains its comfort and flexibility over time.
    Catherine Salfino, Footwear News, 24 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Like the focus on artificial dyes, however, many of the administration's highest-profile health initiatives rely on voluntary agreements.
    Stephanie Armour, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026
  • Chelsea even created an artificial deadline for City to stump up £120m for Enzo Fernandez.
    Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Nonnatural.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/nonnatural. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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