unanticipated

adjective

un·​an·​tic·​i·​pat·​ed ˌən-an-ˈti-sə-ˌpā-təd 

: not anticipated : unexpected, unforeseen

unanticipatedly adverb

Synonyms

• abrupt
• sudden
• unexpected
• unforeseen
• unlooked-for

Examples of unanticipated in a Sentence

The new policy has had some unanticipated side effects.

ran into some unanticipated difficulties with the computer program

Recent Examples on the Web

This unanticipated praise and notoriety will unveil a hidden pathway in your spiritual journey when Neptune retrograde starts later that day. —Liz Simmons, StyleCaster, 24 June 2025

But there may also be unanticipated benefits beyond easier use. —Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 23 June 2025

Axios: Members of Congress fear any one of them could be the target of an unanticipated attack, particularly at home in their districts and while in transit. —Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 17 June 2025

The sixth and final season is focusing on the power of collective action, including unanticipated collaboration between the former enemies June Osborne (Elisabeth Moss) and Serena Joy (Yvonne Strahovski) in attempting to destroy Gilead and restore American democracy. —Salamishah Tillet, New York Times, 2 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1779, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unanticipated

• ameliorated
• decontaminated
• deoxygenated
• deteriorated
• differentiated
• disarticulated
• excommunicated
• incapacitated
• individuated
• misappropriated
• monounsaturated
• multinucleated