unpredictable

adjective

un·​pre·​dict·​able ˌən-pri-ˈdik-tə-bəl 

: not predictable: such as

a

: not able to be known or declared in advance

unpredictable weather

b

: tending to behave in ways that cannot be predicted

an unpredictable boss

unpredictably

ˌən-pri-ˈdik-tə-blē 

adverb

changes that occur unpredictably

unpredictability

ˌən-pri-ˌdik-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

the unpredictability of the weather

Synonyms

• capricious
• changeable
• changeful
• fickle
• flickery
• fluctuating
• fluid
• inconsistent
• inconstant
• mercurial
• mutable
• skittish
• temperamental
• uncertain
• unsettled
• unstable
• unsteady
• variable
• volatile

Examples of unpredictable in a Sentence

unpredictable spring weather that makes it really hard to know what to wear

Recent Examples on the Web

The source said Republicans view Powell as an important pillar of stability in the U.S. economy amid Trump’s unpredictable tariff war against foreign trading partners, including allies such as Canada, Japan, South Korean and Taiwan. —Alexander Bolton, The Hill, 22 Apr. 2025

Spring temps can be unpredictable, so don’t forget to add on a pashmina-style shawl and some statement earrings. —Jené Luciani Sena, FOXNews.com, 21 Apr. 2025

Understanding regional industry nuances and navigating unpredictable sales cycles are as critical as technological advancement. —Jamil Wyne, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025

An unpredictable, yet favorable outcome for the Gross family. —Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 17 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unpredictable

• indictable
• predictable

Kids Definition

unpredictable

adjective

un·​pre·​dict·​able

ˌən-pri-ˈdik-tə-bəl

: not predictable

unpredictability

-ˌdik-tə-ˈbil-ət-ē

noun

unpredictably

-ˈdik-tə-blē

adverb