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Definition of uncharacteristic

uncharacteristic

/ˌʌnˌkær.ək.təˈrɪs.tɪk/
un · char · ac · ter · is · tic
Adverb:uncharacteristically
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uncharacteristic Lexical Profile

• adjective

1

Not typical or representative of a particular person, thing, or situation; contrary to one's usual nature or behavior.

Example

"The usually reserved professor spoke with uncharacteristic enthusiasm during the lecture."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for uncharacteristic
Antonyms
View all antonyms for uncharacteristic

• Rhymes for uncharacteristic

• Nearby Words

unchanging
unchangingly
unchaperoned
uncharacteristic
uncharacteristically
uncharged
uncharismatic

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the negative prefix un- and characteristic, which derives from Ancient Greek kharakteristikos ('designating or typical'), ultimately from kharakter ('engraved mark or distinctive nature').

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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