unnatural
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
not made by nature; created by people or machines.
not occurring in the natural environment; synthetic or artificial in origin.
Simple“The bright green color of the soda looked completely unnatural.”
In context“The scientist noted that the chemical compound was entirely unnatural, having been synthesized in a high-pressure laboratory environment.”
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
not appearing normal or relaxed; feeling forced or fake.
lacking spontaneity or ease; appearing affected, stilted, or contrived.
Simple“He gave an unnatural smile when he saw his rival enter the room.”
In context“The actor's performance felt unnatural, as if he were reciting lines rather than inhabiting the character's emotional state.”
Antonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
going against what is considered normal or right in the natural world.
contrary to the laws of nature or established biological norms; often carries a moralizing tone.
Simple“Some people used to think that certain behaviors were unnatural.”
In context“The philosopher argued that the concept of what is unnatural is often a social construct used to marginalize minority groups.”
From Middle English unnatural, unnaturel, equivalent to un- + natural.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.