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adjective Uncommon

unorthodox

uhn-AW-thuh-doks

Unorthodox (adjective) means departing from what is usual, accepted, or expected. Example: “The coach's unorthodox training methods raised eyebrows, but the team kept winning.”

adjective
1
Departing from what is usual, accepted, or expected.
"The coach's unorthodox training methods raised eyebrows, but the team kept winning."
"She took an unorthodox route into medicine, starting out as a chef."

How to use unorthodox

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDoing things differently from the standard or expected way.

Common pairings
unorthodox approach unorthodox method

Word forms

more unorthodox comparative, most unorthodox superlative

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The coach's _____ training methods raised eyebrows, but the team kept winning.

Etymology

From un- + orthodox.

Related words

Rhymes for unorthodox

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Frequently asked questions

What does “unorthodox” mean?

The word “unorthodox” means departing from what is usual, accepted, or expected. In plain terms, doing things differently from the standard or expected way.

How do you pronounce “unorthodox”?

“Unorthodox” is pronounced uhn-AW-thuh-doks (/ʌnˈɔɹθədɑks/ in IPA).

How do you use “unorthodox” in a sentence?

Here is “unorthodox” used in a sentence: “The coach's unorthodox training methods raised eyebrows, but the team kept winning.”

What is the opposite of “unorthodox”?

The opposite of “unorthodox” — its antonyms — are conventional, expected, halal, kosher and orthodox.

What part of speech is “unorthodox”?

“Unorthodox” is an adjective.

Is “unorthodox” a common word?

“Unorthodox” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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