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Definitions

sudden

[suhd-n] / ˈsʌd n /
ADJECTIVE
unexpected; happening quickly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abrupt hasty immediate precipitous quick rapid swift unforeseen unusual
WEAK
accelerated acute expeditious fast flash fleet headlong hurried impetuous impromptu impulsive out of the blue precipitant precipitate quickened rash rushing spasmodic speeded subito
Antonyms
STRONGEST
delayed gradual lazy leisurely slow sluggish
WEAK
expected

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Their movement then sends false signals to the brain that the head is spinning, causing the sudden dizziness and spinning sensation, sometimes accompanied by nausea, known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

This leads to sudden and intense episodes of pain, swelling, and inflammation.

From Science Daily • Apr. 14, 2026

Investors watch oil prices closely as a sudden spike can lead to a recession, he said, but recent trading action highlighted optimism that the energy-supply disruption triggered by the Iran conflict might be short-lived.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

Negotiations between these countries, which don't have formal diplomatic relations, is an achievement in itself, but few believe they will herald any sudden or significant breakthrough.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

The countdown hit one, and the air whooshed from my lungs as a sudden intense pressure encased my body.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin