unexpected

1 of 2

adjective

un·​ex·​pect·​ed ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd 

: not expected : unforeseen

unexpected consequences/results

Drivers must be prepared to deal with the unexpected. [=things that happen unexpectedly]

unexpectedly adverb

unexpectedness noun

unexpectedness

2 of 2

noun

un·​ex·​pect·​ed·​ness

plural -es

: the quality or state of being unexpected

the unexpectedness of the warm welcome

Synonyms of unexpected

Adjective

• sudden

Examples of unexpected in a Sentence

Adjective

an unexpected turn of events

I'm sad that she's leaving, but it was not unexpected.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

But this episode adds layer after layer of complication onto the now-familiar Make Some Noise mechanics, until even the players frequently seem overwhelmed — especially their unexpected guest star. — Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 28 July 2026

But the technological developments required to study particle physics lead to unexpected discoveries. — Lisa Song, CNN Money, 28 July 2026

Nanfelt said some have misread any concern of unexpected decisions this year as pointing to a fraying relationship between city leadership and the business community. — Dj Simmons july 27, Charlotte Observer, 27 July 2026

This is unexpected, as such processes had previously only been observed in very small volcanic structures, typically rising no more than a few hundred meters. — Refractor, 27 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unexpected

• disaffected
• disconnected
• disinfected
• interjected
• intersected
• misdirected
• preselected
• recollected
• reconnected
• redirected
• reelected
• resurrected

Kids Definition

unexpected

adjective

un·​ex·​pect·​ed ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd 

: not expected : unforeseen

an unexpected happening

unexpectedly adverb

unexpectedness noun