surprised

adjective

sur·​prised sər-ˈprīzd How to pronounce surprised (audio)
sə-
: feeling or showing surprise because of something unexpected
was very surprised to see her there
was too surprised to speak
a surprised expression

Examples of surprised in a Sentence

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.
This year, don’t be surprised if the company’s new Orlando theme park Epic Universe gets a mention, or perhaps Disney’s new project in Abu Dhabi. Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 12 May 2025 And while Neon and A24 will always be competitive, the agent wouldn’t be surprised to see others looking to get in that race. Brian Welk, IndieWire, 12 May 2025 Asked whether running a luxury dog hotel in such an environment ever gave rise to moments of cognitive dissonance, Le Roux appeared surprised. Tommy Trenchard, NPR, 11 May 2025 Travelers were surprised to discover the lack of a backup to allow for the continuation of airport operations. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 11 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for surprised

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of surprised was in 1882

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Surprised.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surprised. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on surprised

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!