Meaning & Definition of word "Uncanny"
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Uncanny
/ʌnˈkæni/
adjective:
- 1. Strange or mysterious, especially in an unsettling way.
- Example: The uncanny resemblance between the two siblings made everyone do a double-take.
- 2. Having an apparent supernatural or inexplicable quality.
- Example: She had an uncanny ability to predict the outcome of events before they occurred.
- 3. Beyond the ordinary or normal.
- Example: The artist's uncanny talent left critics speechless.
Etymology
From the word 'canny', with the prefix 'un-', suggesting a negation of the quality described by the original word.
Common Phrases and Expressions
uncanny valley:
A concept in robotics and animation where a humanoid object that appears almost, but not quite, human causes uneasiness or discomfort.
Related Words
uncannily:
In an uncanny manner; remarkably strange.
canny:
Shrewd or careful, especially in business or financial matters.
Slang Meanings of uncanny
Meaning: Spooky or creepy.
Example Sentence: That movie was so uncanny, I couldn't sleep afterward.
Meaning: Weirdly impressive.
Example Sentence: Her ability to solve puzzles is uncanny.