unexpected

adjective

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

Synonyms

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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.
In 2002, Amazon required every executive to master an unexpected skill: writing press releases for products that didn’t yet exist. — Daniel Lotzof, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025 JuJu Watkins is receiving love from unexpected places. — Sean Neumann, People.com, 28 Mar. 2025 There was an upset on the men’s side, as well, but not as unexpected. — Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2025 Trump finds unexpected ally in auto union leader over tariffs Goodyear Tire’s transformation plan is underway — in the sky and on the ground The United Auto Workers union cheered Trump’s announcement. — Michele Luhn, CNBC, 27 Mar. 2025 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

Phrases Containing unexpected

Rhymes for unexpected

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Browse Nearby Words

unexpectable
unexpected
unexpedient
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

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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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