atypical
Americanadjective
adjective
Usage
What does atypical mean? Atypical is used to describe something that does not conform to the norm or that is irregular, such as an atypical behavior or an atypical action. Something that is atypical differs in a noticeable way from other items of its kind. An atypical flower might be a flower that glows in the dark (if you discover one, let us know!). An atypical horror film could be one in which the monster tries to be friends with everyone rather than kill them. Example: These fixtures are atypical of our usual products.
Other Word Forms
- atypicality noun
- atypically adverb
Etymology
Origin of atypical
Explanation
Typical means what you would expect—a typical suburban town has lots of neat little houses and people. Atypical means outside of type—an atypical suburban town might be populated by zombies in damp caves. Atypical is a synonym of "unusual," but it carries a more objective feel—scientific studies might mention atypical results, suggesting that there is a clear definition of what is typical and what is not. "Unusual" is more of a casual observation that one might make in a non-scientific context.
Vocabulary lists containing atypical
"Not Much, Just Chillin'" – "My Own True Name"
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
typ
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Vocab Video Contest (2016) - List 1
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Are investing algorithms flawed because they are likely overweighting historically atypical data?
From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026
"A classical elegance – a couple incredibly atypical," it says.
From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026
As he starts to see Cactus League action, Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts reflects on where he’s at mentally as he looks to rebound from an atypical season for him.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 2, 2026
Naturally, the pool of films shortlisted for the 2021 Oscars looked much different than it otherwise might have, making that year’s nominees both thrillingly diverse and completely atypical.
From Salon • Feb. 23, 2026
So Bobby decided to use an atypical approach—one unusual for Byrne to face and for Bobby to try.
From "Endgame" by Frank Brady
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
