unprecedented

[uhn-pres-i-den-tid]

adjective

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

   an unprecedented event.

   Synonyms: novel, exceptional, extraordinary, unique

unprecedented

/ ʌnˈprɛsɪˌdɛntɪd /

adjective

1. having no precedent; unparalleled

Other Word Forms

• unprecedentedly adverb
• unprecedentedness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unprecedented¹

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

Example Sentences

“I wrote the book for many reasons, but primarily to remind us how unprecedented that election was,” Harris said about “107 Days,” her political memoir that was released last week.

From Los Angeles Times

LeBron James is entering an unprecedented 23rd season in the NBA not worrying about his expiring contract or when retirement might happen.

From Los Angeles Times

With little sign of California’s unprecedented era of wildfire ending, many other communities may have to learn similar lessons.

From Los Angeles Times

In the run-up to the vote, police reported evidence of an unprecedented effort by Russia to spread disinformation and buy votes.

From BBC

The Zimbabwean and Chinese governments struck the deal earlier this month, offering what has been described as an "unprecedented opportunity for local producers to access one of the world's fastest-growing blueberry markets".

From BBC

Related Words

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