'nonconformist' originates from the prefix 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'conformist,' which comes from the Latin 'conformare,' meaning 'to shape or form.'

'nonconformist' evolved from the English word 'conformist' with the addition of the prefix 'non-' to indicate opposition or lack of conformity.

Initially, it referred to those who did not conform to the Church of England, but now it broadly refers to anyone who does not conform to societal norms.