Definition

Not overused or clichéd; original and fresh in style or expression.

Example

Her unhackneyed approach to storytelling captivated the audience.

Conversation

Have you read that new book everyone's talking about?

Not yet, but I hear it's pretty unhackneyed compared to other novels.

Yeah, I love stories that feel fresh and original.

Same here! I think I'll check it out this weekend.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unhackneyed → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "hackneyed" (from Middle English *hackneyed*, meaning made trite or commonplace). The word "unhackneyed" means not made trite or commonplace, thus referring to something original or fresh.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to something that is 'commonplace' or 'trite' ('hackneyed'). This helps you remember that 'unhackneyed' describes something that is original and not overused.

Visually Confused Words