unfamiliar — not known or recognized; strange
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: not known or recognized; strange
Pronunciation (IPA): /ʌnfəˈmɪljər/
Example Sentences
- The new student looked around the unfamiliar classroom like a lost penguin.
- I'm unfamiliar with this type of software.
- The unfamiliar melody made everyone stop and listen.
unfamiliar
ADJECTIVE[/ʌnfəˈmɪljər/]
not known or recognized; strange

The tourist stared at the unfamiliar subway map, completely lost.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From the prefix 'un-' (not) combined with 'familiar', which comes from Latin 'familiaris' meaning 'of or pertaining to a family' or 'intimate', derived from 'familia' (family).
Breakdown
un- (not) + familiar (from Latin familiaris, intimate/well-known) = unfamiliar (not known or recognized)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The new student looked around the unfamiliar classroom like a lost penguin.”
“I'm unfamiliar with this type of software.”
“The unfamiliar melody made everyone stop and listen.”
“He felt like an alien trying to order food in the unfamiliar restaurant.”
📚Related Words
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