Unwonted: meaning, definitions and examples

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unwonted

 

[ ʌnˈwoʊntɪd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

unusual behavior

The term 'unwonted' refers to something that is not customary or usual. It describes actions, behaviors, or occurrences that are rare or unexpected in a given situation. This adjective is often used to highlight a departure from the norm, conveying a sense of surprise or peculiarity. Additionally, 'unwonted' may suggest a quality that is not typically associated with a person or a place, adding an element of intrigue.

Synonyms

extraordinary, peculiar, rare, unexpected, unusual

Examples of usage

  • Her unwonted laughter filled the room.
  • He exhibited unwonted courage during the crisis.
  • The unwonted silence in the theater was palpable.

Translations

Translations of the word "unwonted" in other languages:

🇵🇹 incomum

🇮🇳 असामान्य

🇩🇪 ungewöhnlich

🇮🇩 tidak biasa

🇺🇦 незвичний

🇵🇱 nadzwyczajny

🇯🇵 異常な

🇫🇷 inhabituel

🇪🇸 inusual

🇹🇷 olağanüstü

🇰🇷 비정상적인

🇸🇦 غير عادي

🇨🇿 neobvyklý

🇸🇰 neobyčajný

🇨🇳 不寻常的

🇸🇮 nenavaden

🇮🇸 óvenjulegur

🇰🇿 әдеттен тыс

🇬🇪 არაბუნებრივი

🇦🇿 adi olmayan

🇲🇽 inusual

Etymology

The word 'unwonted' has its origins in the early 17th century, deriving from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the adjective 'wonted,' which relates to being accustomed or familiar with something. 'Wonted' itself comes from the Old English 'wunten,' meaning 'to be accustomed to.' The word has been used in literature and poetry to convey a sense of novelty or strangeness, often emphasizing the contrast between expected notions and actual experiences. Over the centuries, 'unwonted' has retained its formal tone and is occasionally found in literary and rhetorical contexts, reflecting its roots in a more elaborate form of English. Its usage has declined in modern vernacular, but it still finds a place in descriptive writing, where a touch of sophistication is desired.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,493, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.