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

Synonyms of unexpected

• sudden

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

Researchers at the Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) in France discovered unexpected structural complexities, which could inform the design of safer, more efficient solid-state batteries. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 13 July 2026

Jasmin Camacho, an evolutionary biologist at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, applauds the python work as another way of looking in unexpected places for potential drugs and cures. — Ari Daniel, NPR, 13 July 2026

Americans infected While saying such infections among aid workers are not unexpected, Tedros called for more help to curb the virus. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 13 July 2026

Coal’s resurgence Energy demand is a big part of why coal has made an unexpected comeback, despite its costs. — Ella Nilsen, CNN Money, 13 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unexpected

• disaffected
• disconnected
• disinfected
• interjected
• intersected
• misdirected
• preselected
• recollected
• reconnected
• redirected
• reelected
• resurrected

Kids Definition

unexpected

adjective

un·​ex·​pect·​ed ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd 

: not expected : unforeseen

an unexpected happening

unexpectedly adverb

unexpectedness noun