surprise
surprise Lexical Profile
surprise Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An unexpected or astonishing event, fact, or gift.
"The announcement of the merger came as a complete surprise to the shareholders."
A sudden feeling of mild astonishment or shock caused by something unexpected.
"She raised her eyebrows in surprise when she saw her old classmate at the conference."
The strategic act or advantage of catching someone unawares.
"The negotiators used the element of surprise to present their counteroffer before the deadline."
• verb
To cause someone to feel mild astonishment or shock because of being unexpected.
"The complexity of the student's research paper surprised the entire faculty committee."
To come upon, discover, or catch someone suddenly and unexpectedly.
"The homeowner surprised a raccoon rummaging through the recycling bins on the porch."
• adjective
Done, happening, or appearing unexpectedly and without prior warning (used only before a noun).
"The health inspector conducted a surprise visit to the restaurant kitchen."
• interjection
An exclamation used when revealing something unexpected to someone, or used ironically to point out that an outcome was entirely predictable.
"Surprise! We invited all of your college friends to celebrate your birthday."
• Rhymes for surprise
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 15th century from Old French 'surprise' (a taking unawares), the feminine past participle of 'surprendre', formed from 'sur-' (over, upon) and 'prendre' (to take), from Latin 'prehendere' (to grasp or seize).