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

There has been a resurgence of optimism from a surprising source. — Jamie Timson, TheWeek, 3 July 2026

Plus, the film takes pleasure in mixing genres, surprising with thriller vibes that many won’t see coming. — Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 3 July 2026

Rice's retirement came at a surprising point in his young professional journey. — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

An observation, a surprising message or a sudden change of plans could push you into reaction mode. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 3 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