unprecedented

American  

[uhn-pres-i-den-tid] / ʌnˈprɛs ɪˌdɛn tɪd /

adjective

1. without previous instance; never before known or experienced; unexampled or unparalleled.

   an unprecedented event.

   Synonyms:

   novel, exceptional, extraordinary, unique

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unprecedented British  

/ ʌnˈprɛsɪˌdɛntɪd /

adjective

1. having no precedent; unparalleled

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Other Word Forms

• unprecedentedly adverb
• unprecedentedness noun

Etymology

Origin of unprecedented

First recorded in 1615–25; un- ¹ + precedent + -ed ²

Example Sentences

This year, Chinese military and research vessels have operated around Alaska’s Arctic waters in unprecedented numbers, the Dept. of Homeland Security reported in November.

From The Wall Street Journal

Silver’s sharp decline on Monday also could reflect a healthy adjustment in the “market’s trajectory, especially after the rapid and unprecedented price extension,” Rania Gule, senior market analyst at XS.com, said in emailed comments to MarketWatch.

From MarketWatch

Researchers have grown pea-sized brains in the lab that are offering an unprecedented look at how neurons behave differently in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

From Science Daily

Thanks to a delicate balance of force, beneficence, and self-interest, the United States would enjoy both great national wealth and historically unprecedented global dominance.

From Salon

Silver surpassed $75 per ounce on Friday for the first time, as both precious and industrial metals hit unprecedented highs at year's end, driven by economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

From Barron's

Related Words

• bizarre
• extraordinary
• fantastic
• miraculous
• new
• remarkable
• singular
• uncommon
• unheard-of
• unique
• unparalleled
• unrivaled
• unusual