unexpected

adjective

un·​ex·​pect·​ed ˌən-ik-ˈspek-təd 

: not expected : unforeseen

unexpectedly adverb

unexpectedness noun

Synonyms

• abrupt
• sudden
• unanticipated
• unforeseen
• unlooked-for

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

In a speech Thursday, Fed Chair Jerome Powell suggested rates could be higher in the long term because of unexpected events that constrain supplies and push up prices. —Paul Davidson, USA Today, 16 May 2025

This was unexpected, as black holes have stronger gravitational fields and were thought to evaporate faster. —Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 15 May 2025

Loosely inspired by real athletes, the film follows a British-Polish fighter whose meteoric rise is derailed by an unexpected pregnancy. —Sara Merican, Deadline, 15 May 2025

Stirring it into egg salad or tuna salad is another unexpected way to pack in flavor and texture. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unexpected

• the unexpected

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