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Definitions

sudden

[suhd-n] / ˈsʌd n /
ADJECTIVE
unexpected; happening quickly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abrupt hasty immediate precipitous quick rapid swift unforeseen unusual
WEAK
accelerated acute expeditious fast flash fleet headlong hurried impetuous impromptu impulsive out of the blue precipitant precipitate quickened rash rushing spasmodic speeded subito
Antonyms
STRONGEST
delayed gradual lazy leisurely slow sluggish
WEAK
expected

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In the full video, Woods appears calm, kneeling on one knee as he tells officers: "I looked down at my phone, and all of a sudden, boom."

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

When Sangha heard news reports about Perry's sudden death, she tried to cover her tracks.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

“It’s mostly the sudden noise and shaking that really bothers you,” she said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

The tribe is now grappling with the sudden loss of jobs, along with the dimming of hope that the culturally sacred fish will be restored to their ancestral waters.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

The wind picked up, and a sudden wave lifted the boat.

From "Impossible Creatures" by Katherine Rundell