What does surprise mean?
A surprise is something that happens unexpectedly and evokes astonishment, wonder, or delight. The word can refer to an unforeseen event, such as an unexpected gift or visit, or to the sudden feeling that such an event produces. It is often used when something is pleasantly unexpected, but it can also describe an unpleasant shock or a moment of being caught off guard. As a verb, it describes the effect of an unexpected event on a person or group. 'The result was a surprise' emphasizes the unexpectedness of an outcome, while 'She surprised everyone with her speech' focuses on the effect of an action. The word is common in both formal and informal English and is especially frequent in expressions involving pleasant surprises, extraordinary events, and reactions of disbelief.
An unexpected event, gift, or piece of information, or the feeling of astonishment or delight caused by one.
"The meal at the restaurant was an unexpected but welcome surprise."
Often used with 'pleasant,' 'welcome,' 'big,' or 'complete' when the unexpected event is welcome.
To cause someone to feel sudden astonishment or to catch someone or something off guard.
"The sudden change in the schedule surprised the audience."
Can be transitive, as in 'The news surprised us,' or used with a preposition, as in 'They were surprised by the result.'
Used for multiple unexpected events, gifts, or revelations.
"The guests received several surprises during the celebration."
Surprise turns an ordinary day into a story worth retelling.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does surprise come from?
The word entered English from Old French, where surprise was formed from sur- meaning 'over' or 'upon' and prendre meaning 'to take' or 'seize.' Its deeper roots lie in Latin prehendere, meaning 'to seize' or 'catch,' which also underlies words such as comprehend, apprehend, and enterprise. The original idea was therefore that of taking someone unawares or catching them unexpectedly.
Related word forms
How surprise is actually used
As a noun, the word commonly appears in expressions such as 'a pleasant surprise' and 'to my surprise.' As a verb, it can describe either an unexpected event or a person's reaction to one.