adjective
surprised
Feeling astonishment at something unexpected.
Maya is surprised to find fresh flowers on her desk.
Etymology
The source concerns catching someone unprepared. Surprised describes the emotional state produced when events escape expectation.
More examples
- I'm surprised at how quickly the bread rises.
- He looks surprised when we call his name.
- We're pleasantly surprised by the hotel's spacious rooms.
Forms
surprised
surprise noun — A feeling caused by something unexpected.
surprising adjective — Causing astonishment by being unexpected.
Similar words
- astonished
- Expresses much stronger surprise, often with disbelief.
- amazed
- Emphasizes strong surprise mixed with wonder or admiration.
- startled
- Emphasizes a sudden reaction, often involving alarm or fear.