surprising

adjective

sur·​pris·​ing sər-ˈprī-ziŋ How to pronounce surprising (audio)
sə-
: of a nature that excites surprise

Examples of surprising in a Sentence

It's not surprising that he doesn't want to go. The changes to the campus were surprising. He shows a surprising lack of concern for others. A surprising number of people were laid off at the factory.
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.
Under the temporary guidance of Austin FC coach Nico Estévez, MLS came out with a proactive approach, surprising Liga MX’s team with genuine high-pressing and determined counterattacks. Jeff Rueter, New York Times, 24 July 2025 Chris Paul is all smiles while surprising The Tonight Show audience with his Good Eat'n snacks, as Jimmy Fallon presents him with a new Clippers jersey. Alexandra Schonfeld, People.com, 24 July 2025 Focus on the surprising insight or counterintuitive result that makes people stop and think. Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025 But, Devers' comments after the game were perhaps even more surprising. Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 24 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for surprising

Word History

First Known Use

1614, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of surprising was in 1614

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Cite this Entry

“Surprising.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/surprising. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

surprising

adjective
sur·​pris·​ing
sə(r)-ˈprī-ziŋ
: causing surprise : amazing

More from Merriam-Webster on surprising

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