unfamiliar

adjective

un·​fa·​mil·​iar ˌən-fə-ˈmil-yər 

: not familiar:

a

: not well-known : strange

an unfamiliar place

b

: not well acquainted

unfamiliar with the subject

unfamiliarity

ˌən-fə-ˌmil-ˈyer-ə-tē 

-ˌmi-lē-ˈyer-

-ˈya-rə-

noun

unfamiliarly

ˌən-fə-ˈmil-yər-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• fresh
• new
• novel
• original
• strange
• unaccustomed
• unheard-of
• unknown
• unprecedented

Examples of unfamiliar in a Sentence

He gets nervous when he is in unfamiliar surroundings.

The book is full of unfamiliar words.

Recent Examples on the Web

Kennedy has, at times, seemed unfamiliar with programs and staff that had been cut, and suggested as many as 20% of the people fired could be brought back if they are deemed essential. —Selena Simmons-Duffin, NPR, 13 May 2025

Others view them as a hazard, especially for people unfamiliar with how to drive through them. —Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 May 2025

McKinney says the pieces in the new boutique provide an introduction to the breadth of her creations for those previously unfamiliar with her work. —Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025

Gomez said people who are unfamiliar with Salvadoran cuisine should try a classic bean-and-cheese pupusa. —Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado, Sacbee.com, 10 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unfamiliar

• unfamiliar with (something)

Rhymes for unfamiliar

• conciliar
• familiar

Kids Definition

unfamiliar

adjective

un·​fa·​mil·​iar ˌən-fə-ˈmil-yər 

1

: not well-known : strange

an unfamiliar place

2

: not well acquainted

unfamiliar with the subject

unfamiliarity

-ˌmil-ˈyar-ət-ē 

-ˌmil-ē-ˈ(y)ar-

noun