happenstance
noun
hap·pen·stance
ˈha-pən-ˌstan(t)s 
ˈha-pᵊm-
: a circumstance especially that is due to chance
They came together by mere happenstance.
happenstance
adjective
Examples of happenstance in a Sentence
Our meeting was pure happenstance.
We met each other by happenstance.
It was an agreeable happenstance that we met.
Recent Examples on the Web
In a twist of happenstance, Ballesteros’ parents, Harry and Andry, were able to make it to Wrigley for his debut.
—
Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2025
International recruitment went from happenstance in the ’80s to an indispensable recruitment tactic that teams across the NCAA used to keep up.
—Dylan Scott, Vox, 1 Apr. 2025
That’s partly happenstance, but also because broadcasters in Norway kept ordering new shows while others in Europe applied the brakes.
—Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 20 Mar. 2025
This team has not lost 13 elimination games with this core group by happenstance.
—James Mirtle, New York Times, 15 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for happenstance
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Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2025
International recruitment went from happenstance in the ’80s to an indispensable recruitment tactic that teams across the NCAA used to keep up.
—Dylan Scott, Vox, 1 Apr. 2025
That’s partly happenstance, but also because broadcasters in Norway kept ordering new shows while others in Europe applied the brakes.
—Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 20 Mar. 2025
This team has not lost 13 elimination games with this core group by happenstance.
—James Mirtle, New York Times, 15 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for happenstance
Cite this Entry
“Happenstance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/happenstance. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.
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