unexpected

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

Synonyms of unexpected

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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.
Any business can run into cash-flow gaps — slow seasons, delayed invoice payments or unexpected costs can throw off even the most perfectly balanced budget. — Carson Brunson, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 National risks — even in unexpected places The NPR and BU investigation found that heat is killing people in nearly every corner of the country. — Alejandra Borunda, NPR, 31 Aug. 2026 Season 1 of Furious ended with an arrest, death and the formation of a massive secret that could take the series in an unexpected direction. — Kelly Allen, PEOPLE, 31 Aug. 2026 What began as an unexpected observation in a simple computational model had now been confirmed in a living organism. — K. R. Prathyusha, The Conversation, 31 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for unexpected

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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 1 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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