happiness

noun

hap·​pi·​ness ˈha-pē-nəs 

1

a

: a state of well-being and contentment : joy

b

: a pleasurable or satisfying experience

I wish you every happiness in life.

I had the happiness of seeing you

—W. S. Gilbert

2

: felicity, aptness

a striking happiness of expression

3

obsolete : good fortune : prosperity

all happiness bechance to thee

—William Shakespeare

Synonyms

• joy
• bliss

Examples of happiness in a Sentence

They made a toast to long life and happiness.

her happiness was complete when she got her very own house

Recent Examples on the Web

But creating happiness in cities also requires both spectacular design and a deep understanding of how the intersection of architecture, urban design, and the public realm affects our emotional and physical well-being. —Elizabeth Fazzare, Architectural Digest, 26 Sep. 2025

But what about the pursuit of happiness? —Briah Lumpkins, Charlotte Observer, 26 Sep. 2025

And everyone deserves a little piece of happiness. —Zuzana Říhová, Literary Hub, 26 Sep. 2025

Although having a child improves maternal mental health, research has shown that happiness for the mother declines after every additional child. —Adrianna Rodriguez, USA Today, 26 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see happy

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for happiness

• unhappiness

Kids Definition

happiness

noun

hap·​pi·​ness ˈhap-i-nəs 

: a state of well-being and contentment : joy