happenstance

Definition of happenstancenext

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of happenstance By happenstance, Staehle managed to capture a visual sequence of the planes hitting the towers, the towers collapsing, and on and on. — David Friend, Vanity Fair, 10 Sep. 2026 Reaching the state of serenity isn’t just by happenstance, but the aftermath of resilience. — Ngozi Nwanji, Billboard, 25 Aug. 2026 If Felker’s appearance was by happenstance, Wynonna’s was by design. — Josh Crutchmer, Rolling Stone, 15 Aug. 2026 All that while also pivoting because of fan reaction, injuries and other happenstance. — Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for happenstance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for happenstance
Noun
  • That coincidence does not mean that Lilia’s story is mine, or that the novel is autobiographical.
    — Yiyun Li, New Yorker, 13 Oct. 2026
  • By coincidence, the Song aesthetic converges in both stories.
    — Li Jun, Footwear News, 12 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • These circumstances, too, create a perception of the world as unpredictable and may lead people to seek escape via alcohol or other drugs.
    — Maia Szalavitz, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026
  • That's why the exact circumstances of that particular infection remain unclear.
    — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 19 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Happenstance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/happenstance. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!