uncharacteristic
Britishadjective
Explanation
When something is uncharacteristic, it's not typical or expected. Snow in South Carolina is uncharacteristic, even in January. Your uncharacteristic silence might prompt your friends to worry about you, especially if you're normally the most talkative one in the room. On the other hand, an uncharacteristic win for your school's football team may fill you with uncharacteristic school spirit. Characteristic means "typical of a person or thing," and when you add the prefix un-, "not," you get its direct opposite.
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.
The seven-time Grand Slam champion was below the level he showed in winning the Japan Open last week as he produced a string of uncharacteristic errors.
From BBC ● Oct. 12, 2026
But she fell into an uncharacteristic silence after the screenshots were published on Thursday, broken only by a brief comment of "I have complete confidence in Jordan" to La Tribune Dimanche newspaper this weekend.
From Barron's ● Oct. 4, 2026
He looked startled for a moment and then with an uncharacteristic grin replied that he considered that a welcome compliment.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 25, 2026
An uncharacteristic performance from Arsenal saw them ship three goals at Brighton - but boss Mikel Arteta believes their first Premier League defeat this season could prove a "big lesson".
From BBC ● Sep. 19, 2026
I watch her with uncharacteristic absorption, because I know everyone will be waiting for my reaction to the interview.
From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
