unanticipated

adjective

un·​an·​tic·​i·​pat·​ed ˌən-an-ˈti-sə-ˌpā-təd How to pronounce unanticipated (audio)
: not anticipated : unexpected, unforeseen
unanticipatedly adverb

Examples of unanticipated in a Sentence

The new policy has had some unanticipated side effects. ran into some unanticipated difficulties with the computer program
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But the dedication is, secondarily, a disclaimer for what’s to come — a season that retains much of what made Season 1 such a thrilling debut, but also shows some entirely understandable awkwardness in making an unanticipated pivot. Alison Herman, Variety, 15 Sep. 2025 The unanticipated additional crew members sometimes made for tight sleeping quarters in the space station, which Williams describes as about the size of an airliner inside. Sam Gillette, PEOPLE, 13 Sep. 2025 The unanticipated change appears to be the result of waning demand during the winter period. Lori Weisberg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Sep. 2025 An increase in the supply of bonds to cover the unanticipated shortfall in tariff revenue means the government could have to offer higher yields to attract investors. Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN Money, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unanticipated

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1779, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unanticipated was circa 1779

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Cite this Entry

“Unanticipated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unanticipated. Accessed 20 Sep. 2025.

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