Unwonted
/ʌnˈwɒntɪd/noun
Not usual, customary, or expected.
Did you know?The root behind “wont” originally described remaining or dwelling somewhere, suggesting that repeated experience literally becomes what feels ‘at home.’
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*wenh₁-
“To remain, stay, or dwell; the reconstructed root associated with the Germanic family behind “wont.””
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*wunjaną
“To dwell, remain, or become accustomed.”
Old English
Old English
gewunian
“To dwell, remain, or become accustomed; the source of “wont.””
Middle English
Middle English
wont
“Custom, habit, or usual practice; also accustomed.”
15th Century
English
unwonted
“Uncustomary or unusual, formed with un- meaning “not” plus wonted.”
Modern English
English
unwonted
“Not usual, customary, or expected.”