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
But this holiday season came with an unexpected challenge.
—
Kennedy Cook, CBS News, 22 Dec. 2025
Dedicated Swifties likely already have a drawer full of The Eras Tour merch and corresponding cardigans for each album, so this camera is an unexpected and thoughtful holiday gift idea fans will appreciate.
—Claire Harmeyer, PEOPLE, 21 Dec. 2025
Even in the most sophisticated spaces, a hint of something unexpected is often what makes holiday décor unforgettable.
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Lindsey’s departure, though not unexpected after Sherrone Moore’s firing, is notable for a few reasons.
—Austin Meek, New York Times, 21 Dec. 2025
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Kennedy Cook, CBS News, 22 Dec. 2025
Dedicated Swifties likely already have a drawer full of The Eras Tour merch and corresponding cardigans for each album, so this camera is an unexpected and thoughtful holiday gift idea fans will appreciate.
—Claire Harmeyer, PEOPLE, 21 Dec. 2025
Even in the most sophisticated spaces, a hint of something unexpected is often what makes holiday décor unforgettable.
—Leala King, Travel + Leisure, 21 Dec. 2025
Lindsey’s departure, though not unexpected after Sherrone Moore’s firing, is notable for a few reasons.
—Austin Meek, New York Times, 21 Dec. 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 26 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
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