Explanation

“Unprecedented” means never done or known before – without precedent. When something is unprecedented, it has no previous example to compare it to.

The word comes from “precedent” (a previous case that serves as an example) plus the negative prefix “un-” meaning “not.” So unprecedented = not having any precedent.

Synonyms include unparalleled, unmatched, and novel. Antonyms include common, usual, and routine. Use “unprecedented” for truly unique, first-time events.