unpredictable

[ uhn-pri-dik-tuh-buhl ]

adjective

1. not predictable; not to be foreseen or foretold:

   an unpredictable occurrence.

   Synonyms: uncertain, variable, fitful, erratic

noun

1. something that is unpredictable:

   the unpredictables of life.

unpredictable

/ ˌʌnprɪˈdɪktəbəl /

adjective

1. not capable of being predicted; changeable

Derived Forms

• ˌunpreˌdictaˈbility, noun
• ˌunpreˈdictably, adverb

Other Words From

• unpre·dicta·bili·ty unpre·dicta·ble·ness noun
• unpre·dicta·bly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of unpredictable¹

First recorded in 1855–60; un- ¹ + predictable

Example Sentences

"Soon after the mass hits the ground, the behavior is unprecedented and appears to be highly unpredictable," Pudasaini said.

From Science Daily

That mix of techniques has obvious advantages, better preparing communities for unpredictable resources and increasing demand.

From Science Daily

"If that relationship becomes unpredictable, or is marked by repeated bouts of good and bad behavior, it can cause real problems for the whole team."

From Science Daily

I don’t know Jon personally but I think it’s pretty apparent from this week’s antics already that he’s a pretty unpredictable character.

From BBC

And few places in gaming are as unpredictable as an IndieCade event.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• erratic
• fickle
• uncertain
• unreliable
• unstable