unexpected
adjective
un·ex·pect·ed
ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd 
: not expected : unforeseen
unexpectedly
adverb
unexpectedness
noun
Synonyms
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
Here's everything to know about the drag racing legend’s life leading up to his unexpected death.
—
Makena Gera, Peoplemag, 16 July 2024
Cancer June 21 – July 22 Creativity may bring unexpected healing.
—Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 16 July 2024
Lancelot, still the Round Table’s greatest hero, is a bit of a cold fish with an unexpected role to play as the saga winds to its close.
—Elizabeth Hand, Washington Post, 16 July 2024
That became relevant for workers in perhaps unexpected places like New York City last year, when Canada wildfire smoke drifted into the U.S., creating an orange haze over the city.
—Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 16 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for unexpected 
Makena Gera, Peoplemag, 16 July 2024
Cancer June 21 – July 22 Creativity may bring unexpected healing.
—Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 16 July 2024
Lancelot, still the Round Table’s greatest hero, is a bit of a cold fish with an unexpected role to play as the saga winds to its close.
—Elizabeth Hand, Washington Post, 16 July 2024
That became relevant for workers in perhaps unexpected places like New York City last year, when Canada wildfire smoke drifted into the U.S., creating an orange haze over the city.
—Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 16 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for unexpected
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'unexpected.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near unexpected
Cite this Entry
“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 27 Jul. 2024.
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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