Definition

Strange or mysterious in a way that is unsettling or eerie, often suggesting something supernatural.

Example

The uncanny resemblance between the two strangers made everyone feel uneasy.

Conversation

Have you ever experienced something that felt really uncanny?

Yeah, I had this feeling when I saw my old friend after many years.

What happened that felt so uncanny?

It was like we picked up right where we left off, almost surreal!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Uncanny → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "canny" (from Scots, meaning knowing or shrewd). The word "uncanny" describes something that is not just strange but also unsettling or eerie, often because it is beyond normal understanding.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not' ('un-') 'shrewd' or 'knowing' ('canny') — that's why uncanny refers to something strange or eerie.

Visually Confused Words