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 Plenty of shower curtains boast pretty designs, but the Urban Outfitters Allover Fruits Patterned Shower Curtain is unexpected and quirky. Andrea Wurzburger, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Mar. 2024 There was just something beautiful about how [director and screenwriter Celine Song] told the story in a way that was so unexpected. Joey Nolfi, EW.com, 5 Mar. 2024 The Biden administration is also promoting the progress of its earlier actions to crack down on junk fees, the additional unexpected charges tacked on by companies including banks, car rental agencies, and event ticket sellers. Lauren Feiner, The Verge, 5 Mar. 2024 Salt says an autopsy revealed Cash died from SIDS, the term for the sudden and unexpected death of an infant, for which medical experts currently have no explanation or cause. Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 5 Mar. 2024 The decision to terminate the deal was not unexpected. J. Edward Moreno, New York Times, 4 Mar. 2024 And that growth, particularly for the white spruce in northern Alaska, comes from an unexpected source, according to new research. Matt Simon, WIRED, 4 Mar. 2024 Rigatoni lashed with a veal ragù and the wholly unexpected of cantaloupe, as well as prosciutto and ricotta. John Mariani, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2024 While the city is facing its own struggles with a broken barrage, heavy floods and an unexpected arrival of crocodiles in the Yamuna river, Rishu and Rani are trying their best to avoid attention and plan their escape for their happily ever after. Patrick Brzeski, The Hollywood Reporter, 29 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'unexpected.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 19 Mar. 2024.

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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