unexpected
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
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
The Philadelphia 76ers were one quarter away from overcoming Joel Embiid’s unexpected injury absence.
—
Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 7 May 2026
Every seating unfolds to a soundtrack of 90s hip-hop, an unexpected but perfect counterpoint that keeps the room relaxed, energetic, and quietly joyful.
—Lori Fredrich, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026
When unexpected events force Gabriela into a defining leadership role, she is pushed to her limit-facing choices that will shape not only her future, but the fate of the institution itself.
—Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 7 May 2026
Santistevan, who works in the department’s Special Enforcement Bureau, which oversees the K-9 unit, found his answer in an unexpected place — at a law enforcement desert event where K-9 units are tested in a series of drills.
—Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 7 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
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Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 7 May 2026
Every seating unfolds to a soundtrack of 90s hip-hop, an unexpected but perfect counterpoint that keeps the room relaxed, energetic, and quietly joyful.
—Lori Fredrich, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026
When unexpected events force Gabriela into a defining leadership role, she is pushed to her limit-facing choices that will shape not only her future, but the fate of the institution itself.
—Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 7 May 2026
Santistevan, who works in the department’s Special Enforcement Bureau, which oversees the K-9 unit, found his answer in an unexpected place — at a law enforcement desert event where K-9 units are tested in a series of drills.
—Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 7 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
Cite this Entry
“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 9 May. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
unexpected
adjective
un·ex·pect·ed
ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd
: not expected : unforeseen
an unexpected happening
unexpectedly
adverb
unexpectedness
noun
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