unexpected
adjective
un·ex·pect·ed
ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd 
: 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
Thanks to amazing performances, wild fashion choices, and unexpected moments, the MTV Video Music Awards is typically one of the buzzier awards shows — and this year was no exception.
—
Daysia Tolentino, Entertainment Weekly, 8 Sep. 2025
In a joyful and unexpected twist, Zimmerer even had the honor of being the flower girl.
—Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025
The venue will be filled with brand activations, live entertainment and unexpected moments designed to spark new ideas.
—John Hall, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025
The Miami Hurricanes have an unexpected top-25 matchup on deck at Hard Rock Stadium.
—Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 7 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
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.
Daysia Tolentino, Entertainment Weekly, 8 Sep. 2025
In a joyful and unexpected twist, Zimmerer even had the honor of being the flower girl.
—Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025
The venue will be filled with brand activations, live entertainment and unexpected moments designed to spark new ideas.
—John Hall, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025
The Miami Hurricanes have an unexpected top-25 matchup on deck at Hard Rock Stadium.
—Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 7 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
Cite this Entry
“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
unexpected
adjective
un·ex·pect·ed
ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd
: not expected : unforeseen
an unexpected happening
unexpectedly
adverb
unexpectedness
noun
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share