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
One of the most unexpected gifts of retirement was more space for real friendship.
—
Erica Chidi, SELF, 22 Jan. 2026
Since 1891, the Bison Paddock in Golden Gate Park has offered an unexpected glimpse of the American frontier in the heart of San Francisco.
—Lewis Nunn, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
Strategy’s purchase, therefore, was unexpected—perhaps more so given that a key piece of crypto legislation, known as the Clarity Act, encountered an unexpected stumble last week.
—Carlos Garcia, Fortune, 22 Jan. 2026
Groceries average about $300 per month, and while imported foods come at a premium, the ability to pick up Mediterranean staples adds an unexpected layer of excitement to island life.
—Dana Sauchelli, Travel + Leisure, 22 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
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Erica Chidi, SELF, 22 Jan. 2026
Since 1891, the Bison Paddock in Golden Gate Park has offered an unexpected glimpse of the American frontier in the heart of San Francisco.
—Lewis Nunn, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
Strategy’s purchase, therefore, was unexpected—perhaps more so given that a key piece of crypto legislation, known as the Clarity Act, encountered an unexpected stumble last week.
—Carlos Garcia, Fortune, 22 Jan. 2026
Groceries average about $300 per month, and while imported foods come at a premium, the ability to pick up Mediterranean staples adds an unexpected layer of excitement to island life.
—Dana Sauchelli, Travel + Leisure, 22 Jan. 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 27 Jan. 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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