unexpected
adjective
un·ex·pect·ed
ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd 
: not expected : unforeseen
unexpectedly
adverb
unexpectedness
noun
Synonyms
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
Surprisingly, Jimmy Buffett pops up among the inductees — unexpected because not only was the late singer/songwriter not on the ballot this year, but he had never even been nominated before.
—
Chris Willman, Variety, 22 Apr. 2024
The surgery was grueling, lasting 10 hours, with unexpected complications that required blood transfusions.
—Andrea Mandell, Peoplemag, 21 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for unexpected 
Chris Willman, Variety, 22 Apr. 2024
The surgery was grueling, lasting 10 hours, with unexpected complications that required blood transfusions.
—Andrea Mandell, Peoplemag, 21 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for unexpected
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.
Dictionary Entries Near unexpected
Cite this Entry
“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 4 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
unexpected
adjective
un·ex·pect·ed
ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd
: not expected : unforeseen
an unexpected happening
unexpectedly
adverb
unexpectedness
noun
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