Definition

Not natural; artificial or forced, often in a way that feels uncomfortable or wrong.

Example

Her smile seemed unnatural, as if she was trying too hard to be happy.

Conversation

Did you notice how he smiled? It looked so unnatural to me.

Yeah, I thought the same! It felt like he was trying too hard.

Exactly! It's like he wasn't being himself at all.

Right? It just made the whole situation feel awkward.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unnatural → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "natural" (from Latin "naturalis", meaning of nature). The word "unnatural" means not in accordance with nature or not natural.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'natural', which helps you remember that 'unnatural' describes something that is not in harmony with nature.

Visually Confused Words