Definitions

unexpected

[uhn-ik-spek-tid] / ˌʌn ɪkˈspɛk tɪd /

ADJECTIVE

surprising

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abrupt accidental amazing astonishing fortuitous startling stunning sudden swift unanticipated unforeseen unpredictable wonderful

WEAK

chance electrifying eye-opening from left field impetuous impulsive instantaneous not bargained for not in the cards out of the blue payback prodigious staggering unheralded unlooked-for unpredicted

Antonyms

STRONGEST

deliberate designed expected intentional planned predictable slow

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.

Patrolling King's Cross and the surrounding streets, homeless outreach workers Eabha and Elise say they find women in unexpected places.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Each is taxed differently, and a misstep can mean an unexpected tax bill, said Bruce Brumberg, co-founder of mystockoptions.com.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

Mice showed far less lose-shift behavior, making them less likely to adjust their decisions after an unexpected outcome.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

Strategy Executive Chairman Michael Saylor has become one of the most visible Bitcoin bulls over the last few years, and the decision to sell—while not totally unexpected —likely dented retail investors’ confidence in the asset.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

That life’s unexpected plot twists are not always to our liking should never be cause for despair.

From "The Unseen Guest" by Maryrose Wood

Vocabulary lists containing unexpected

This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for April 22–April 28, 2023

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Week 5: Scientific Viewpoints

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Strange

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!