unprecedented

adjective

ˌən-ˈpre-sə-ˌden-təd How to pronounce unprecedented (audio)
Definition of unprecedentednext
as in novel
not known or experienced before this is an unprecedented request for the reference desk

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of unprecedented Recall replacement protocol Filling Perkins’ vacant seat will be an unprecedented challenge for the city of Independence, as his removal Tuesday night was the first time a city official has been recalled by referendum in the city’s history. — Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 2 Sep. 2026 The strikes marked a sixth straight day of heavy Russian attacks on Kyiv, an assault unprecedented since Russia launched the full-scale invasion of its neighbor more than 4½ years ago. — Samya Kullab, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2026 Indeed, fragrance launches have proliferated since the category’s unprecedented post-COVID-19 boom, as have channels. — Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026 Driscoll also warned the White House about unprecedented efforts by Hegseth to block others from advancing into the military's highest ranks after they had been thoroughly vetted, the sources said. — Luis Martinez, ABC News, 1 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unprecedented
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unprecedented
  1. novel
  2. new
  3. strange
  4. unfamiliar
  5. fresh
  6. unheard-of
  7. original
Adjective
  • There was nothing particularly novel about the show’s premise, but the scripts were refreshingly dense with jokes, prioritizing laughs over contrived drama or seasonlong relationship arcs.
    — Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Expect to discover many novel flavors of Brazil—butiá, cajú, cumaru—worked into the menu in unique ways.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of novel
Adjective
  • Now is a great time to pick up a new pair of sneakers for fall while prices are low.
    — Anna Traver, InStyle, 1 Sep. 2026
  • With the team entering a new era with a new coaching staff, Baltimore made some moves that were a bit atypical on roster cutdown day.
    — Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of new
Adjective
  • Some are quieter this year, some are almost ridiculous, but all of them share a strange sense of purpose.
    — Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • His attempt to discover what he is supposed to be doing propels him through a succession of increasingly strange encounters, as his search for purpose becomes entangled with his desire for love, friendship and some kind of place in the world.
    — Davide Abbatescianni, Variety, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of strange
Adjective
  • For bouquets, Wahlen recommends choosing one type of flower that has already been identified as non-toxic rather than an arrangement filled with unfamiliar stems and greenery, where a dangerous flower may be tucked among otherwise safe blooms.
    — Lauren Paige Richeson, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Nalewaja, who attended, said Matsui appeared unfamiliar with issues facing people living in the Sierra foothills.
    — Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of unfamiliar
Adjective
  • Think bright citrus, fresh herbs, seasonal fruit and plenty of bubbles.
    — Emily Price, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Blood Similar to cleaning urine stains, if the blood on your mattress is fresh, then start the process by soaking up excess liquid with a paper towel before cleaning the area.
    — Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of fresh
Adjective
  • The band features an almost unheard-of 11 musicians, all among Ireland’s best in their musical specialties.
    — Dan Kelly August 30, Kansas City Star, 30 Aug. 2026
  • That is unheard-of with prolonged exposure, cognitive processing, and certainly SSRIs, the current standard-of-care options.
    — Anderson Cooper, CBS News, 16 Aug. 2026
Definition of unheard-of
Adjective
  • The shop’s mascot, a rabbit, is named Lewis, after the original Lewis & Duncan grocery store that once inhabited the building.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Historic Preservation Commission members voted Thursday to approve exterior changes to the mansion’s original design plan as the building, now more than a century old, undergoes restoration and renovation as part of a new residential development.
    — Carolyn Stein, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of original

Browse Nearby Words

unpopularity
unprecedented
unpredictability
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Cite this Entry

“Unprecedented.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unprecedented. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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