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nonconformist

non-kuhn-FORM-ist /ˌnɒnkənˈfɔːrmɪst/

nounadjectiveC1GRESATUPSC

formalneutral

A person whose behavior or views do not conform to prevailing ideas or practices.

Can be a badge of honor (independent thinker) or a criticism (troublemaker).

The story behind the word. The term gained popularity in the 17th century to describe English Protestants who refused to 'conform' to the Act of Uniformity. It has since moved from a religious label to a general social one.

Word relationships

maverick: Maverick implies a bold, independent-minded person, often in business or politics.
rebel: Rebel implies active fighting against authority; nonconformist is more about lifestyle and belief.

conformist: A conformist follows the crowd and obeys all rules.
traditionalist: A traditionalist follows established customs strictly.

Commonly confused with

eccentric: Eccentric means strange or unusual; nonconformist means rejecting the standard.

Word family

nonconformity (noun): Failure or refusal to conform to a prevailing rule or practice.

Collocations

fierce nonconformist
nonconformist attitude
religious nonconformist

Idioms & expressions

march to the beat of a different drum
square peg in a round hole

Example sentences

"As a nonconformist, she refused to follow the latest fashion trends, preferring her own unique style." Artistic lifestyle.
"The Nonconformists were Protestants who did not follow the practices of the Church of England." Historical religious context.

Memory hook

Nonconformist = Not-Conform-ist. Someone who is 'not' going to 'conform'. Nonconformist = No-Form-ist (won't take your form).

When not to use

Do not use for someone who is just eccentric; it usually implies a conscious choice to reject norms.

Fun facts

Ralph Waldo Emerson's essay 'Self-Reliance' is considered the ultimate manifesto for the American nonconformist.