uncanny Definition
- 1strange or mysterious, especially in an unsettling way
- 2seeming to have a supernatural or inexplicable basis
Using uncanny: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "uncanny" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The resemblance between the two women was uncanny.
Example
He had an uncanny ability to predict the future.
Example
The painting had an uncanny likeness to the real thing.
Example
There was an uncanny silence in the room.
uncanny Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for uncanny
Antonyms for uncanny
Phrases with uncanny
a phenomenon where a robot or other artificial being is so realistic that it becomes eerie or disturbing to human observers
Example
The robot's movements were so lifelike that it fell into the uncanny valley and made people uncomfortable.
Example
Her uncanny ability to remember faces and names made her a successful salesperson.
a striking similarity between two things that seems almost too close to be coincidental
Example
The actor's uncanny resemblance to the historical figure made him perfect for the role.
Origins of uncanny
from the Scottish 'canny', meaning 'knowing' or 'skilled'
Summary: uncanny in Brief
The term 'uncanny' [ʌnˈkæni] refers to something strange or mysterious, often in an unsettling way. It can describe a person's abilities, such as 'He had an uncanny ability to predict the future,' or a resemblance, such as 'The painting had an uncanny likeness to the real thing.' The phrase 'uncanny valley' describes the eerie feeling that can arise when a robot or other artificial being is too realistic.