Definition

Referring to ideas, styles, or activities that are not widely accepted or popular among the general public.

Example

The film festival showcased many nonmainstream movies that challenged traditional storytelling.

Conversation

Have you heard that new band that's really nonmainstream?

Yeah, I love their sound! It's so different from what's popular.

I appreciate how they take risks with their music.

Exactly! It's refreshing to hear something nonmainstream for a change.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonmainstream → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "mainstream" (from Old English "mǣne" meaning common or ordinary, and "stream" meaning a flow or current). The word "nonmainstream" refers to something that is not part of the common or ordinary flow of ideas or trends.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') being combined with 'common flow' ('mainstream') to remember that 'nonmainstream' describes something that goes against the usual trends.

Visually Confused Words