unexpected

adjective

un·​ex·​pect·​ed ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd How to pronounce unexpected (audio)
Synonyms of unexpectednext
: not expected : unforeseen
unexpected consequences/results
Drivers must be prepared to deal with the unexpected. [=things that happen unexpectedly]
unexpectedly adverb
unexpectedness noun

Synonyms of unexpected

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Examples of unexpected in a Sentence

an unexpected turn of events I'm sad that she's leaving, but it was not unexpected.
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.
Jason travels with Chelsea to Paris to secure a major donation, and the two forge an unexpected connection along the way. — Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 3 Aug. 2026 In an unexpected decision, next year’s Met Gala will be devoted to the works of the equally celebrated and controversial fashion designer, John Galliano. — Cheyenne Roundtree, Rolling Stone, 3 Aug. 2026 In my 20s, an unexpected reaction to laundry detergent left me with my first case of hives. — Kristen Willard, Glamour, 3 Aug. 2026 As a devout Mormon, Steven's unexplained proximity to Las Vegas and a series of mysterious road trips point to unexpected secrets. — Eileen Murphy, ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unexpected

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unexpected was circa 1586

Rhymes for unexpected

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Browse Nearby Words

unexpectable
unexpected
unexpectedly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

unexpected

adjective
un·​ex·​pect·​ed ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd How to pronounce unexpected (audio)
: not expected : unforeseen
an unexpected happening
unexpectedly adverb
unexpectedness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on unexpected

Nglish: Translation of unexpected for Spanish Speakers

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