surprising

adjective

sur·​pris·​ing sər-ˈprī-ziŋ 

sə-

: of a nature that excites surprise

Synonyms of surprising

• startling
• amazing
• shocking
• stunning
• astonishing

Examples of surprising in a Sentence

It's not surprising that he doesn't want to go.

The changes to the campus were surprising.

He shows a surprising lack of concern for others.

A surprising number of people were laid off at the factory.

Recent Examples on the Web

Countless insects and other invertebrates Also not surprising is that the Okefenokee, being a swamp, is home to thousands of invertebrate species — butterflies, moths, bees, dragonflies, beetles, spiders and other soft-bodied creatures. — Charles Seabrook, AJC.com, 25 July 2026

That being said, the new Jefferson’s new Founder’s Reserve is a very successful two-decade-old bourbon with a surprising wine cask finish that is an absolute treat to drink. — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 24 July 2026

In a very youthful group inevitably depleted by several senior players enjoying their post-World Cup breaks, the two summer arrivals were surprising absentees. — Liam Twomey, New York Times, 24 July 2026

Perhaps that’s why the news that Melania won’t be present at one particular event isn’t all that surprising. — Stylecaster Editors, StyleCaster, 24 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1614, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for surprising

• advising
• apprising
• arising
• baptizing
• capsizing
• chastising
• comprising
• despising
• devising
• disguising
• downsizing
• excising

Kids Definition

surprising

adjective

sur·​pris·​ing

sə(r)-ˈprī-ziŋ

: causing surprise : amazing