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Definition of contrarian

contrarian

/kənˈtrɛr.i.ən/
con · trar · i · an
Plural:contrarians
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contrarian Lexical Profile

contrarian Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Opposing or rejecting popular opinion, established consensus, or current market practices.

Example

"The professor is known for taking a contrarian stance during faculty debates to test the strength of his colleagues' arguments."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A person who opposes or rejects popular opinion or established consensus, especially in financial investing by buying assets that are performing poorly and selling those that are performing well.

Example

"As a seasoned contrarian, she began buying shares in the struggling technology sector just as most investors were rushing to sell."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for contrarian

• Nearby Words

contralto
contraplex
contraption
contrarian
contrarianism
contrarily
contrariness

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-20th century (originally in financial journalism during the 1950s) from 'contrary' plus the suffix '-ian', ultimately tracing back to Latin 'contrarius' ('opposite, opposed'), from 'contra' ('against').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Contrarian. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/contrarian
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