unanticipated

adjective

un·​an·​tic·​i·​pat·​ed ˌən-an-ˈti-sə-ˌpā-təd How to pronounce unanticipated (audio)
: not anticipated : unexpected, unforeseen
unanticipatedly adverb

Examples of unanticipated in a Sentence

The new policy has had some unanticipated side effects. ran into some unanticipated difficulties with the computer program
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.
TikTok’s Impact on Outdoor Access The ban is set to have unanticipated ripple effects in the outdoors community. Taylor Lorenz, Outside Online, 15 Jan. 2025 Its unauthorized, unanticipated, and exponential growth has proceeded apace these many years for several reasons, but conspicuous among them is this one: the failure of the Congress to do its job. Neal B. Freeman, National Review, 22 Nov. 2024 The missed projection was the result of state reversions and unanticipated growth of services for gaining and disabled residents. Alexandra Kukulka, Chicago Tribune, 14 Jan. 2025 While raging wildfires in California, devastating hurricanes affecting unanticipated regions, and record heat waves appropriately capture the headlines and describe the heartbreaking human stories, the longer-lasting effects on individual’s physical and mental health often go unnoticed. Bill Frist, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for unanticipated 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1779, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unanticipated was circa 1779

Dictionary Entries Near unanticipated

Cite this Entry

“Unanticipated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unanticipated. Accessed 5 Feb. 2025.

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