unexpectedly
Americanadverb
Etymology
Origin of unexpectedly
Explanation
When something happens unexpectedly, it takes you by surprise because you weren’t prepared for it, like a surprise party or a sudden rainstorm on a sunny day. The adverb unexpectedly comes from the word unexpected, which means "something that wasn’t anticipated or planned." When something happens unexpectedly, it catches you off guard and can lead to a range of emotions, like surprise, excitement, or even confusion. For example, you might unexpectedly bump into an old friend at the grocery store or receive an unexpected gift in the mail, creating a memorable moment.
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.
Since MMA can rear its head unexpectedly, these people could still react to medical treatment, van Nunen explains, because many drugs include products derived from animals, such as vaccines that contain gelatin.
From BBC ● Jul. 20, 2026
A few stars in the comparison group also showed unexpectedly high lithium levels.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 16, 2026
A hectic day in markets lifted stocks Tuesday, thanks to booming bank profits and an unexpectedly upbeat inflation report.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026
RIP, Sam Neill: The New Zealand actor died unexpectedly today at 78.
From Slate ● Jul. 13, 2026
During his entire career as a naturalist, only one animal had ever unexpectedly attacked Cherrie: a tamandua, or lesser anteater.
From "Death on the River of Doubt" by Samantha Seiple
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
