Something that is not natural; goes against nature or normal behavior.
From 'un-' (not) + 'natural' (from Latin 'naturalis'). The compound form has been used since at least the 1500s to describe things that seemed to violate the natural order.
What people call 'unnatural' often just means 'unfamiliar'—same-sex behavior exists in hundreds of animal species, but people called it unnatural for centuries simply because they weren't used to seeing it!
Applied historically to women's sexuality, ambition, and refusal of motherhood, 'unnatural' medicalizes non-conformity and justifies restriction of autonomy.
Avoid using for human behavior or identity; use 'different,' 'uncommon,' or 'non-conforming.' Reserve 'unnatural' for non-biological contexts (artificial materials, synthetic processes).
["uncommon","non-conforming","different from typical"]
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.