Definition of anomalousnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word anomalous distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words irregular and unnatural are common synonyms of anomalous. While all three words mean "not conforming to rule, law, or custom," anomalous implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence.

her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization

Where would irregular be a reasonable alternative to anomalous?

Although the words irregular and anomalous have much in common, irregular implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct.

concerned about his irregular behavior

When is it sensible to use unnatural instead of anomalous?

The meanings of unnatural and anomalous largely overlap; however, unnatural suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society.

prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of anomalous Nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley is the charmingly anomalous town of Solvang, which was settled in the early 20th century by Danish pioneers. Laura Itzkowitz, Travel + Leisure, 23 June 2026 The problem is, mainstream science and society have been slow to move away from the narrative that all animals copulate only for reproduction, any same-sex activity is purely anomalous (and unnatural), and every species is male-dominated. Rachel Brodsky, Rolling Stone, 20 June 2026 The resulting metacrystals were designed to handle multiple incoming waves, different angles, two polarizations, and multiple functions, including anomalous reflection, transmission, and absorption. New Atlas, 19 June 2026 The sector will grasp on to this for dear life, even if SpaceX is ultimately anomalous, as will be Anthropic and OpenAI. Allie Garfinkle, Fortune, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for anomalous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for anomalous
Adjective
  • Although his adoption listing didn't mention his unusual paws, his foster mom did.
    Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 5 July 2026
  • Indeed, that has led to the highly unusual situation of Australia not being the defending champions in either women’s World Cup, with India holding the 50-over title and New Zealand the T20 crown.
    Paul Newman, New York Times, 5 July 2026
Adjective
  • In this context, when screening healthy asymptomatic people who aren’t at high risk, the chance at an ideal screening result of identifying abnormal tissue that can be eliminated is very low.
    Joshua P. Cohen, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
  • The abnormal heat has been driven by the onset of El Niño, a natural climate pattern characterized by unusually warm waters along the equatorial tropical Pacific Ocean.
    Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • This year’s celebration comes on the heels of a late June warehouse fire in Boyle Heights that released extraordinary amounts of soot and smoke across the county, on par with pollution generated by the previous year’s wildfires.
    Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026
  • These were moments of extraordinary dissent against the British government by American colonists.
    Dana Taylor, USA Today, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • Even after extensive engineering, Coach Eve would take about three seconds to reply to a question—a delay users felt was uncomfortable and unnatural.
    Benjamin Wolff, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026
  • His speech was an unnatural blur.
    Paige Williams, New Yorker, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • Just down the road, Beefbar at Hotel Lou Pinet offers a relaxed ambiance and exceptional dishes.
    Karli Poliziani, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026
  • Read More TopicsTaylor Swift Vogue Weddings An all-access invitation to the exceptional and inspirational, plus planning tips and advice.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • Explore unique crafts, goods and gifts from over 15 local vendors.
    Lesly Gregory, AJC.com, 1 July 2026
  • And cadets were on the hunt for unique pieces to add to their collections.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • Ireland Ireland offers a rare cross-generational appeal, where estate activities and rugged landscapes make for an ideal family itinerary.
    Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
  • Thieves stole $25,000 worth of rare Pokémon cards after breaking into an Eagan, Minnesota, claw machine arcade last weekend, employees said.
    Jason Rantala, CBS News, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • The idea is to make healthy eating doable, especially for an audience with odd hours and high-stress jobs.
    Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 July 2026
  • Put those two next to each other and the picture is odd and clarifying at once.
    Ian Shepherd, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Anomalous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/anomalous. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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