Suddenly

/ˈsʌdənli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb
in a sudden manner; unexpectedly and quickly.
The lights went out suddenly, plunging the room into darkness.
occurring without warning.
Suddenly, the car swerved to avoid hitting a deer.
at once, without delay.
She suddenly realized she had forgotten her keys.
in a way that is surprising or unexpected.
He suddenly burst into laughter, catching everyone off guard.

Etymology

Middle English, from sudden + -ly

Common Phrases and Expressions

out of the blue:
Unexpectedly; without advance notice.
all of a sudden:
Suddenly; quickly and unexpectedly.
in a heartbeat:
Very quickly; without delay.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Out of nowhere
It hit me out of nowhere when I got the news.
Boom!
And then, boom! She was gone.