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.
While Prince William, 42, had already been scheduled to attend in honor of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, Princess Kate’s inclusion marks a significant and unexpected addition. Janine Henni, People.com, 27 Jan. 2025 The series will also focus on Collins' complicated relationship with the commander-in-chief himself, President Cal Bradford (James Marsden), who meets an unexpected and gruesome fate early on. Amaris Encinas, USA TODAY, 27 Jan. 2025 Per People, Prince William had been scheduled to attend the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp; however, Princess Catherine was a late and unexpected addition to the guest list. Sam Reed, Glamour, 27 Jan. 2025 Volunteer activities also can result in unexpected damage claims. Bob Carlson, Forbes, 27 Jan. 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

Dictionary Entries Near unexpected

Cite this Entry

“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 30 Jan. 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!