surprised
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /səˈpraɪzd/
KK: /sərˈpraɪzd/
adjective
Definition
Feeling or showing shock or amazement because something unexpected has happened.
Example
She was surprised to see her friends at the party.
Conversation
I was really surprised by the gift you got me for my birthday!
I'm glad you liked it! I thought it would be a nice surprise.
It definitely was! I never expected such a thoughtful present.
I wanted to make your day special, and I'm happy it worked!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
astonished
astounded
takenaback
Antonyms
unmoved
expected
bored
verb
Definition
To feel or show a strong feeling of wonder or shock about something unexpected.
Example
She was surprised to see her old friend at the party.
Tense Forms
Past: surprised
Past Participle: surprised
Conversation
I was so surprised to see you at the concert last night!
I know, right? It was such a fun surprise!
I didn't expect so many people to show up.
Root Explanation
Surprised → It is formed from the prefix "sur-" (meaning over or above) and the root "prendere" (meaning to seize or take). The word originally conveys the idea of being taken over or seized by an unexpected event.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'taken over' ('prendere') by something unexpected ('sur-') — that's why surprised means to be caught off guard.
Visually Confused Words
unsurprised
resurprise
surmised
supprise
uprise
superpraise
spried
presurprise