What does unfamiliar mean?
Unfamiliar describes something that is not known, recognized, or experienced. It may refer to a fact or idea encountered for the first time, to a place or person whose identity or character is not readily known, or to someone lacking experience in a particular area. The word is generally neutral, though it can sometimes suggest that something seems strange or out of place rather than merely new. Unfamiliar is especially useful when the emphasis is on a lack of prior knowledge: a situation may be challenging because it is unfamiliar, not necessarily because it is dangerous or undesirable. The adjective is standard in formal writing, education, journalism, and everyday conversation. Its related adverb, unfamiliarly, is much less common and is usually replaced in smoother prose by a phrase such as “in an unfamiliar way.”
Not known, recognized, or experienced; not familiar.
"The guide explained several unfamiliar technical terms."
The construction “unfamiliar with” is standard for a person lacking knowledge or experience of something. When applied to people, the word can carry an additional implication of strangeness.
In a way that is unfamiliar or not readily recognizable.
"The landscape looked unfamiliarly vast and empty."
This adverb is relatively uncommon; an explicit phrase such as “in an unfamiliar way” is often more natural.
Unfamiliarity can be unsettling, but it is also where curiosity begins.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unfamiliar come from?
Unfamiliar was formed in the early 17th century by combining the prefix un- with familiar. Familiar comes through Old French from Latin familiaris, meaning “domestic” or “intimately acquainted,” ultimately derived from familia, the Latin word for a household or family. The negative prefix thus expresses the absence of prior knowledge, recognition, or acquaintance.
Related word forms
How unfamiliar is actually used
Neutral and common in both formal and informal English. It can indicate that something is simply unknown, although in descriptions of people it may also imply strangeness or lack of familiarity; context determines the intended nuance.