unexpected

adjective

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

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.
Aquarius: Eclectic nostalgia Original and unexpected, Aquarius mixes cutting-edge trends with their own unique flair. Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025 Playing his career for the Nashville Predators, Tampa Bay Lightning and Los Angeles Kings show a perfect example of an unexpected pay cut for a player. Tyler Small, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 Party chair elections are rarely on the radars of high-level party leaders like governors and senators, Jones said, which can end up having unexpected outcomes. Cody Copeland, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 July 2025 Torn between them, Lily must decide if destiny is leading her toward unexpected love. Samantha Stutsman, People.com, 1 July 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

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

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!