unnatural
UK: ʌnˈnætʃ(ə)rəl | US: ʌnˈnætʃ(ə)rəl
adj. not existing in nature; artificial or man-made
adj. contrary to the ordinary course of nature; abnormal
adj. lacking spontaneity or sincerity; forced
The word "unnatural" combines the Germanic prefix "un-" (a staple in English for negation) with the Latin-derived "natural," creating a direct contrast to what is inherent or expected in nature. This hybrid structure reflects English's tendency to merge Germanic and Latinate elements for precise expression. The term originally emphasized physical deviation from nature (e.g., supernatural phenomena) but later expanded to describe human behavior violating societal or biological norms.
The synthetic dye gave the fabric an unnatural glow.
His forced laughter sounded unnatural and awkward.
Many consider cloning to be an unnatural manipulation of life.
The sudden silence in the forest felt eerie and unnatural.
Her reaction was so calm it seemed almost unnatural.