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

The standout, though, is the on-site restaurant and bar, Laut, which blends Asian flavors with Caribbean flair in a way that feels both unexpected and natural for the setting. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 2026

The team said the result was unexpected. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 20 Feb. 2026

His spokesperson said the number of mentions is not unexpected given their long-running ties. —Julie Carr Smyth The Associated Press, Arkansas Online, 19 Feb. 2026

However, the dinosaur’s overall anatomy and Cretaceous stomping grounds showcase Spinosaurid’s unexpected and fascinating evolutionary culmination. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 19 Feb. 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