as in coincidence
formal + literary
something that happens by chance
Our meeting was pure happenstance. We met each other by happenstance.
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
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
The idea for the trip started with a twist of happenstance.
—
Rachel Chang, Travel + Leisure, 20 Jan. 2025
In a moment of happenstance, The Bachelor franchise alums Joey Graziadei and Jenn Tran, who starred as the titular bachelor and bachelorette on 2024's renditions of the dating show, ended up sharing a dance in the Dancing With the Stars ballroom.
—EW.com, 23 Oct. 2024
And one benefit of a plot built on relentlessly surreal happenstance is that eventually every new plot development starts to feel like a twist — because nothing is predetermined, and rationality and rigor have already gone out the window.
—Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 13 Mar. 2025
Dorit plays the entire scene perfectly, whether by strategy or happenstance.
—Brian Moylan, Vulture, 25 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for happenstance
Rachel Chang, Travel + Leisure, 20 Jan. 2025
In a moment of happenstance, The Bachelor franchise alums Joey Graziadei and Jenn Tran, who starred as the titular bachelor and bachelorette on 2024's renditions of the dating show, ended up sharing a dance in the Dancing With the Stars ballroom.
—EW.com, 23 Oct. 2024
And one benefit of a plot built on relentlessly surreal happenstance is that eventually every new plot development starts to feel like a twist — because nothing is predetermined, and rationality and rigor have already gone out the window.
—Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 13 Mar. 2025
Dorit plays the entire scene perfectly, whether by strategy or happenstance.
—Brian Moylan, Vulture, 25 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for happenstance
Cite this Entry
“Happenstance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/happenstance. Accessed 6 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share