Meaning & Definition
adjective
Not made known in advance; occurring without prior notice.
The company conducted an unannounced inspection to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Arriving or happening without prior warning.
She received an unannounced visit from her childhood friend, which took her by surprise.
Done without formal notification.
The unannounced changes to the schedule confused many participants at the event.
Etymology
Combining the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'announced', which comes from the Latin 'annuntiatus', meaning 'to announce'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
unannounced arrival:
an arrival without prior notice or warning.
unannounced inspection:
an inspection that is not scheduled or communicated in advance.
Slang Meanings
sudden drop-in
My friend made a sudden drop-in, completely unannounced.
surprise guest
He showed up as a surprise guest, not unannounced but unexpected.