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.
What’s perhaps unexpected, and has also contributed to Knies’ rise as a bona fide playoff performer? Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 3 May 2025 Say yes to group chats, catch-ups, or even unexpected collaboration. Colin Bedell, Them., 2 May 2025 Something unexpected happened in the Clippers’ elimination game on Thursday night. Dylan Hernández, Los Angeles Times, 2 May 2025 However, the investigation took an unexpected turn when Post himself came under scrutiny for an entirely different reason. Doc Louallen, ABC News, 2 May 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

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Cite this Entry

“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 15 May. 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
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