'uncharacteristically' originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not,' combined with 'characteristic,' which comes from the Greek word 'kharaktēr,' meaning 'a mark or symbol.'

'characteristic' evolved from the Greek word 'kharaktēr' through Latin 'characteristicus' and eventually became the modern English word 'characteristic.'

Initially, it meant 'a distinguishing mark or feature,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'typical or usual.'