surprising

adjective

sur·​pris·​ing sər-ˈprī-ziŋ How to pronounce surprising (audio)
sə-
Synonyms of surprisingnext
: of a nature that excites surprise

Synonyms of surprising

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Examples of surprising in a Sentence

It's not surprising that he doesn't want to go. The changes to the campus were surprising. He shows a surprising lack of concern for others. A surprising number of people were laid off at the factory.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Philadelphia’s surprising additions of James and Brown and Miami’s acquisition of Antetokounmpo after months of trade rumors surrounding the two-time NBA MVP catapult both teams into title contention. — Hunter Patterson, New York Times, 31 July 2026 Billions > millions Placek likes to tell a story that illustrates the chasm between the right name — one that’s surprising and familiar all at once — and more predictable choices. — HubSpot, 31 July 2026 What followed when Flaco, who had lived his entire life in captivity, took up residence on New York City rooftops and trees is a surprising story revealing the delight, concern, and fascination of millions in the city and beyond. — Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 31 July 2026 Amidst this reassessment, the team made a surprising move by releasing 26-year-old outfielder Je’Von Ward. — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for surprising

Word History

First Known Use

1614, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of surprising was in 1614

Rhymes for surprising

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Browse Nearby Words

surprise, surprise
surprising
surprisingly
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Cite this Entry

“Surprising.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surprising. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

surprising

adjective
sur·​pris·​ing
sə(r)-ˈprī-ziŋ
: causing surprise : amazing

More from Merriam-Webster on surprising

Nglish: Translation of surprising for Spanish Speakers

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