sudden

noun

Synonyms of suddennext
obsolete
: an unexpected occurrence : emergency
see also:

Word History

First Known Use

1558, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sudden was in 1558

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sudden.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sudden. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

sudden

adjective
sud·​den
ˈsəd-ᵊn
1
a
: happening or coming unexpectedly
a sudden shower
b
: changing angle or character all at once
a sudden turn in the road
2
: marked by or showing haste
a sudden decision
3
: made or brought about in a short time
a sudden cure
suddenly adverb
suddenness
ˈsəd-ᵊn-(n)əs
noun

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