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
Hurley hasn’t gotten an unexpected bill since.
—
Zach Dyer, Miami Herald, 6 Jan. 2026
Watching Lilo’s picks has also added an unexpected emotional twist to Ku’s own sports fandom.
—Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 6 Jan. 2026
Although not entirely unexpected, this was a forward-looking choice that stood out in an industry where the generational handover is often not a top priority.
—Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 5 Jan. 2026
Obama rocked an unexpected black manicure and wore her hair in a deep side part swept back in a loose low updo.
—Meg Walters, InStyle, 5 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for unexpected
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Zach Dyer, Miami Herald, 6 Jan. 2026
Watching Lilo’s picks has also added an unexpected emotional twist to Ku’s own sports fandom.
—Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 6 Jan. 2026
Although not entirely unexpected, this was a forward-looking choice that stood out in an industry where the generational handover is often not a top priority.
—Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 5 Jan. 2026
Obama rocked an unexpected black manicure and wore her hair in a deep side part swept back in a loose low updo.
—Meg Walters, InStyle, 5 Jan. 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 6 Jan. 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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