unusual

adjective

un·​usu·​al ˌən-ˈyü-zhə-wəl How to pronounce unusual (audio)
-zhəl;
-ˈyüzh-wəl
: not usual : uncommon, rare
unusually adverb
unusualness noun

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
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.
The sale prices reflect the unusual situation of a large company buying several houses that weren't listed for sale − with plans to demolish or move them to help assemble the development site, said Didier, who operates a Re/Max franchise. Tom Daykin, jsonline.com, 14 July 2025 Bringing together wildlife filmmaking with reality competition is unusual. Peter White, Deadline, 14 July 2025 The result is an unusual savory drink that is light and crisp. Sacbee.com, 14 July 2025 Although Usonian in design, this house has an unusual hexagonal structure. AFAR Media, 14 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for unusual

Word History

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unusual was in 1579

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Cite this Entry

“Unusual.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unusual. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

unusual

adjective
un·​usu·​al ˌən-ˈyüzh-(ə-)wəl How to pronounce unusual (audio)
-ˈyü-zhəl
: not usual : uncommon, rare
unusually
adverb
unusualness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on unusual

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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