unexpected

adjective

ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd How to pronounce unexpected (audio)
Definition of unexpectednext
as in sudden
not expected the failure of the backup generator was unexpected and a contingency for which we weren't prepared

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of unexpected Attendees swap numbers and Instagram handles, but friendships and unexpected community ties form just as often. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 2 July 2026 Artisan Market Thoughtful, small-batch cookies made with intention and inspired by unexpected flavors. — Rs Editors, Rolling Stone, 2 July 2026 Two hundred and fifty years later, as artificial intelligence reshapes the practice of law and prompts questions about the future of the profession, the nation's founding offers an unexpected answer. — Joseph Andrew, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 And while many know Mariska Hargitay from her decades-long run on Law & Order or as one of the Knicks' biggest hype women, she can also be considered among fashion's unexpected trendsetters. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unexpected
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unexpected
sudden
Adjective
  • Earthquakes' sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches.
    — CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 4 July 2026
  • Small Holes One sign of snakes in your garden could be the sudden appearance of small holes that could be about the size of a small coin, or up to two inches.
    — Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 3 July 2026
Definition of sudden

Browse Nearby Words

unexotic
unexpected
unexpectedly
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Cite this Entry

“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unexpected. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on unexpected

Nglish: Translation of unexpected for Spanish Speakers

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