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
On paper, the United States and Mexico are the favorites to advance, although previous editions have shown that the tournament often produces unexpected results.
—
Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026
From evergreen staples from Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo to modern takes from Toteme and The Row (and even a few unexpected picks in bubblegum pink and firetruck red), their wishlist encompasses a lot of bridal styles; and, more importantly, a lot of bridal events.
—Vogue, 6 Mar. 2026
The dark dining format has proven to be an ideal platform for Chef Adrianne, who is already known for surprising guests with dishes featuring unexpected combinations of flavors.
—Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 5 Mar. 2026
And when unexpected developments arise, the Huskers are positioned to handle them without sliding into a ditch.
—Mitch Sherman, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
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Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026
From evergreen staples from Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo to modern takes from Toteme and The Row (and even a few unexpected picks in bubblegum pink and firetruck red), their wishlist encompasses a lot of bridal styles; and, more importantly, a lot of bridal events.
—Vogue, 6 Mar. 2026
The dark dining format has proven to be an ideal platform for Chef Adrianne, who is already known for surprising guests with dishes featuring unexpected combinations of flavors.
—Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 5 Mar. 2026
And when unexpected developments arise, the Huskers are positioned to handle them without sliding into a ditch.
—Mitch Sherman, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
Cite this Entry
“Unexpected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unexpected. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.
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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