Unstandardised

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Not brought into line with a common set of norms, measurements, or specifications, so it varies from one case to another
2. Lacking a uniform rule, format, or established benchmark that everything of its kind is required to follow
3. Not conforming to an agreed model or consistent set of criteria, and therefore differing in form or practice

Etymology: "Unstandardised" is simply the British spelling of "unstandardized," and it is built in the most ordinary way English builds words: the prefix "un-," meaning "not," attached to "standardised," the past participle of "standardise." The verb "standardise" comes from "standard," which in turn traces back to the Old French "estandart," a word for a battle flag or banner, the idea being that a standard was a rallying point everyone could see and rally to. From that flag sense, "standard" came to mean a fixed measure or model that others are judged against, and "standardise" developed from that notion of conforming to a common measure. Adding "un-" produces the sense of something that has not been brought into line with such a benchmark, so a product, format, or practice lacking a common rule is described as unstandardised.

Synonyms: nonstandard, irregular

Antonyms: standardised, standard