unpredictable

adjective

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

Synonyms of unpredictable

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Examples of unpredictable in a Sentence

unpredictable spring weather that makes it really hard to know what to wear
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.
Today, the battlefield exists within boardrooms, organizational dynamics, and unpredictable market shifts. — Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 The breathable mesh upper keeps my feet cool even in scorching temperatures, while the treaded outsoles provide extra grip on park walks and during unpredictable weather. — Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 25 July 2026 Primaries are difficult to poll because the turnout is unpredictable and low. — Kevin Rennie, Hartford Courant, 25 July 2026 In Kibera, residents told us supply is unpredictable and prices vary widely. — Raul Roman, NPR, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for unpredictable

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unpredictable was in 1840

Rhymes for unpredictable

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Browse Nearby Words

unpredictability
unpredictable
unpredicted
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unpredictable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unpredictable. Accessed 31 Jul. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of unpredictable for Spanish Speakers

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