Synonyms of unfamiliar

unfamiliar

adjective

ˌən-fə-ˈmil-yər 

as in strange

not known or experienced before

ordered an unfamiliar wine and was surprised to find that it was much drier than what they were used to

Synonyms & Similar Words

• strange
• new
• novel
• unprecedented
• fresh
• original
• unknown
• unaccustomed
• unheard-of
• unique
• innovative
• nontraditional
• unconventional
• untried
• pioneering
• unused
• unworn
• trailblazing
• pathbreaking

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• familiar
• old
• tired
• hackneyed
• traditional
• conventional
• established
• tried
• time-honored
• warmed-over
• derivative
• tried-and-true
• imitative

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of unfamiliar

With Romelu Lukaku continuing his super-sub role and even Jeremy Doku reduced to a cameo off the bench, with Garcia rewarding those who inspired the Senegal comeback with starting places, this was an unfamiliar Belgium team. — Tim Spiers, New York Times, 7 July 2026

The largely unfamiliar cast lend an air of unpredictability that serves the central mystery well, while the city itself — the bulk of the events take place in the brutalist confines of the Barbican Estate — plays an admirable supporting role. — Damon Wise, Deadline, 6 July 2026

Once unfamiliar and experimental, virtual taekwondo is now emerging as a structured competitive discipline. — ABC News, 6 July 2026

More adventurous ingredients and sauces, like the chimichurri served with the beef bowl at Jurassic World Canteen, come on the side so adults can customize their meals while younger eaters can enjoy the same dish without unfamiliar flavors. — Jacqueline Dole, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2026