unexpected

1 of 2

adjective

un·​ex·​pect·​ed ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd How to pronounce unexpected (audio)
Synonyms of unexpectednext
: not expected : unforeseen
unexpected consequences/results
Drivers must be prepared to deal with the unexpected. [=things that happen unexpectedly]
unexpectedly adverb
unexpectedness noun

unexpectedness

2 of 2

noun

un·​ex·​pect·​ed·​ness
plural -es
: the quality or state of being unexpected
the unexpectedness of the warm welcome

Synonyms of unexpected

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Adjective

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Examples of unexpected in a Sentence

Adjective 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.
Adjective
Watch for a new or unexplained lump in the breast or armpit, ongoing breast pain unrelated to the menstrual cycle, skin dimpling or redness, a newly inverted nipple or unexpected discharge and swelling in the lymph nodes near the arm or collarbone. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 16 Oct. 2026 An anti-establishment mood among the electorate, as evidenced by upsets in primaries earlier this year, could spell unexpected trouble for some incumbents, UNC Charlotte political scientist Eric Heberlig noted. — Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 16 Oct. 2026 Be suspicious of unexpected security alerts A real cybersecurity incident gives scammers an opportunity to send convincing fake breach notifications. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 16 Oct. 2026 Ralph’s pursuit of his perfect Christmas, however, takes dark and unexpected turns. — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 16 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unexpected

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unexpected was circa 1586

Rhymes for unexpected

See All Rhymes for unexpected

Browse Nearby Words

unexpectable
unexpected
unexpectedly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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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
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