English Explanatory Dictionary

happenstance

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. The chance or random quality of an event or circumstance.
  2. A chance or random event or circumstance.

Pronunciation

/ˈhæpənˌstæns/ /ˈhap(ə)nˌstans/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-happenstance.wav

Word forms

happenstance happenstances

Etymology

Blend of happening + circumstance. Attested from 1855 in US publications.

Synonyms

accident chance coincidence happenchance

Derived words

happenstantial happenstantially
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