unlike

American  

[uhn-lahyk] / ʌnˈlaɪk /

adjective

1. different, dissimilar, or unequal; not alike.

   They contributed unlike sums to charity.

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preposition

1. dissimilar to; different from.

   She is unlike my sister in many ways.

2. not typical or characteristic of.

   It is unlike her to enjoy herself so much.

noun

1. a person or thing differing from another or others.

unlike British  

/ ʌnˈlaɪk /

adjective

1. not alike; dissimilar or unequal; different

2. archaic unlikely

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preposition

1. not like; not typical of

   unlike his father, he lacks intelligence

Other Word Forms

• unlikeness noun

Etymology

Origin of unlike

First recorded in 1150–1200, unlike is from the Middle English word unlik. See un- ¹, like ¹

Example Sentences

As we get into our larger parachutes, like the drogues and the mains, we have a lighter-weight nylon ... not unlike what you might build a tent out of, or an old-school windbreaker.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

The fluid moved slowly and steadily, unlike blood, which flows quickly and dynamically.

From Science Daily • Apr. 9, 2026

"I'm starting from scratch with apprentices in this sector, unlike electricians where they have grounding at college for at least a year."

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

But unlike other aging vets who stay afloat with guile and experience, Rose has blended the wisdom of years with a full-on embrace of younger methods, retooling everything from his swing to his fitness routines.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

His hair and face were unlike any fashion Anya had ever seen before.

From Anya and the Nightingale by Sofiya Pasternack