unfamiliar
UK: ˌʌnfəˈmɪliə | US: ˌʌnfəˈmɪljɚ
adj. not known or recognized; lacking knowledge or experience with something
adj. not having a close or intimate relationship; distant
The word "unfamiliar" combines the Old English prefix un- (meaning "not") with familiar, derived from Latin familiaris, which originally referred to household members or close associates. Over time, familiar evolved to mean "well-known" or "intimately acquainted," while unfamiliar emerged to describe the opposite—something unknown or distant. The logical progression reflects negation of familiarity, preserving the original Latin root's core idea of closeness.
The streets were unfamiliar to her after years of living abroad.
He felt uncomfortable in the unfamiliar environment.
The software uses an unfamiliar interface, making it hard to navigate.
She spoke with an unfamiliar accent.
The topic was entirely unfamiliar to the audience.