unpredictable

adjective

un·​pre·​dict·​able ˌən-pri-ˈdik-tə-bəl How to pronounce unpredictable (audio)
: 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 adverb
changes that occur unpredictably
unpredictability noun
the unpredictability of the weather

Examples of unpredictable in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Hollywood decision makers will look at an unpredictable and likely unrepeatable concurrence and see a readily exploitable template. Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times, 22 Nov. 2023 Sound, rugged and sufficiently unpredictable, the Wolverines are true to the persona of their square-jawed, quirky coach. Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Nov. 2023 Though the nest is cramped and the schedule is unpredictable, Teresa falls into the swing of her new job. Bekah Waalkes, The Atlantic, 17 Nov. 2023 Taylor Swift’s Midnights and SZA’s SOS feel like the undeniable front-runners for the Album of the Year prize at the 2024 Grammys — but then again, Recording Academy voters are equally capable of being totally predictable and wildly unpredictable. Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 8 Nov. 2023 On top of that, the unpredictable nature of these seizures can also lead to anxiety and depression and take a toll on someone’s mental well-being. Michelle Pugle, Health, 7 Nov. 2023 Boxing is probably an unpredictable pain point for [them]. Tyler R. Tynes, Los Angeles Times, 12 Nov. 2023 Its soft, water-resistant exterior protects contents from all of the bang-ups and unpredictable weather that goes hand-in-hand with traveling. Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 11 Nov. 2023 Hotel pillows can be unpredictable, so save yourself the neck cramps by bringing your own. Jackie Cucco, Travel + Leisure, 10 Nov. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'unpredictable.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unpredictable was in 1840

Dictionary Entries Near unpredictable

Cite this Entry

“Unpredictable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unpredictable. Accessed 7 Dec. 2023.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on unpredictable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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