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
This heartwarming kids' movie sees Gobo journe to the human world to find some unexpected musical inspiration.
—
Griff Griffin, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Dec. 2025
Using the James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have detected unexpected high-energy ultraviolet radiation around five infant stars, or protostars, in the Ophiuchus star birthing region.
—Robert Lea, Space.com, 30 Nov. 2025
Like eucalyptus, some types of spruce trees have bluish-green needles that add unexpected color to holiday decor and complement the look of pine and fir branches.
—Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Nov. 2025
While the Palace of Holyroodhouse was getting ready for the holidays, Balmoral Castle in the Scottish Highlands had an unexpected closure due to early winter weather.
—Stephanie Petit, PEOPLE, 30 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Griff Griffin, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Dec. 2025
Using the James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have detected unexpected high-energy ultraviolet radiation around five infant stars, or protostars, in the Ophiuchus star birthing region.
—Robert Lea, Space.com, 30 Nov. 2025
Like eucalyptus, some types of spruce trees have bluish-green needles that add unexpected color to holiday decor and complement the look of pine and fir branches.
—Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Nov. 2025
While the Palace of Holyroodhouse was getting ready for the holidays, Balmoral Castle in the Scottish Highlands had an unexpected closure due to early winter weather.
—Stephanie Petit, PEOPLE, 30 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
Cite this Entry
“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 6 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
unexpected
adjective
un·ex·pect·ed
ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd
: not expected : unforeseen
an unexpected happening
unexpectedly
adverb
unexpectedness
noun
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share