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
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.
What was unexpected was how the College Football Playoff picture would have such a different view entering October. Erick Smith, USA Today, 29 Sep. 2025 Hot-start squads have a sense of urgency while trying to protect unexpected early leads. Mike Jones, New York Times, 28 Sep. 2025 However, the Toon Army is struggling to get off the ground this season after seeing their side undergo an unexpected makeover in the summer months. Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Sep. 2025 The most unexpected surprise, though, was seeing the microphone room. Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 28 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unexpected

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unexpected was circa 1586

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Cite this Entry

“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

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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