unexpected

adjective

un·​ex·​pect·​ed ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd 

: not expected : unforeseen

unexpectedly adverb

unexpectedness noun

Synonyms

• abrupt
• sudden
• unanticipated
• unforeseen
• unlooked-for

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

But during the appearance, an unexpected guest also got some attention from those gathered below! —Jillian Frankel, People.com, 27 May 2025

In the middle of a seven-minute piece interpreted in an appropriately serious manner, Urie elicited unexpected giggles from the audience. —Daniel Vaillancourt, Los Angeles Times, 27 May 2025

There are unexpected movements, too, plus frantic activity between the more than 20 frames that surround the stage. —Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 May 2025

The community has grown up, but growth brought unexpected burdens. —Boaz Sobrado, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unexpected

• the unexpected

Rhymes for unexpected

• disaffected
• disconnected
• disinfected
• interjected
• intersected
• misdirected
• preselected
• recollected
• reconnected
• redirected
• reelected
• resurrected

Kids Definition

unexpected

adjective

un·​ex·​pect·​ed ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd 

: not expected : unforeseen

an unexpected happening

unexpectedly adverb

unexpectedness noun