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
Meanwhile, cyber charters increased their revenue by $425 million and reserves to cover unexpected expenses by 144% between 2020 and 2023, with support from school choice advocates such as cyber charter leaders and advocacy organizations.
—
Julia McWilliams, The Conversation, 4 June 2026
The deduction cap is imposed on trusts and estates, the experts said, which was unexpected.
—Hayley Cuccinello, CNBC, 4 June 2026
Under creative director Chemena Kamali, the brand has embraced its bohemian roots with a subversive twist, mixing sheer billowing silhouettes with unexpected footwear.
—Diana Tsui, Footwear News, 4 June 2026
Scientists say the explosion may have done something unexpected and potentially helpful.
—Kimberly Richardson, CNN Money, 4 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
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Julia McWilliams, The Conversation, 4 June 2026
The deduction cap is imposed on trusts and estates, the experts said, which was unexpected.
—Hayley Cuccinello, CNBC, 4 June 2026
Under creative director Chemena Kamali, the brand has embraced its bohemian roots with a subversive twist, mixing sheer billowing silhouettes with unexpected footwear.
—Diana Tsui, Footwear News, 4 June 2026
Scientists say the explosion may have done something unexpected and potentially helpful.
—Kimberly Richardson, CNN Money, 4 June 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 5 Jun. 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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