surprisingly

adverb

sur·​pris·​ing·​ly sər-ˈprī-ziŋ-lē How to pronounce surprisingly (audio)
sə-
Synonyms of surprisinglynext
1
: in a surprising manner : to a surprising degree
a surprisingly fast runner
2
: it is surprising that
surprisingly, voter turnout was high

Examples of surprisingly in a Sentence

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.
Capricorn December 22 – January 19 The everyday stuff could go surprisingly well today. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 Oct. 2026 The state’s Republican governor Greg Abbott, who is locked in a surprisingly tight race of his own, has imposed a temporary moratorium on new data centers until an audit is complete. — Naomi Nix, Time, 29 Oct. 2026 At 4-3, the Ravens suddenly find themselves in last place in what has become a surprisingly competitive AFC North. — Andy Scholes, CNN Money, 29 Oct. 2026 With a surprisingly luxurious feel, the formula contains hyaluronic acid for deep hydration, retinol to smooth skin and target signs of aging, and vitamin C to brighten. — Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for surprisingly

Word History

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of surprisingly was in 1661

Rhymes for surprisingly

See All Rhymes for surprisingly

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Surprisingly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surprisingly. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

surprisingly

adverb
sur·​pris·​ing·​ly -lē How to pronounce surprisingly (audio)
1
: in a surprising manner : to a surprising degree
a surprisingly fast runner
2
: it is surprising that
surprisingly, no one disagreed

More from Merriam-Webster on surprisingly

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