windfall

noun

wind·​fall ˈwin(d)-ˌfȯl 

1

: something (such as a tree or fruit) blown down by the wind

2

: an unexpected, unearned, or sudden gain or advantage

Synonyms

• benediction
• benefit
• blessing
• boon
• felicity
• godsend
• good
• manna

Examples of windfall in a Sentence

They received a windfall because of the tax cuts.

hitting the lottery jackpot was an incredible windfall for the recently laid-off worker

Recent Examples on the Web

Soon windfall energy earnings flooded into government coffers and defense production shifted into high gear. —Rachel Ventresca, Fortune Europe, 7 June 2024

Ashkenazi was an instrumental part in developing investment strategies and allocating the windfall. —Rocio Fabbro, Quartz, 5 June 2024

But many people and companies are poised for a windfall, including Devin Nunes, the former Republican congressman who became chief executive of Trump Media in 2022. —David Yaffe-Bellany, New York Times, 21 May 2024

Libra September 23 – October 22 An unexpected windfall could be a welcome treat at any moment. —Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 13 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

windfall

noun

wind·​fall -ˌfȯl 

1

: something (as a tree or fruit) blown down by the wind

2

: an unexpected gift, gain, or help