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
Ours is a path this new crew may follow, health and happenstance permitting.
—
Tyler Estep, AJC.com, 6 May 2026
Maybe that’s just happenstance, but Sabres coach Lindy Ruff thinks there could be something to it.
—Matthew Fairburn, New York Times, 1 May 2026
Now, photos are supposed to look unplanned and happenstance, even when the content is carefully staged.
—Rachel Hale, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2026
But whether by happenstance or fate, a Kansas City cigar salesman warming himself in the store one day persuaded him that this was the place.
—Kansas City Star, 23 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for happenstance
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Tyler Estep, AJC.com, 6 May 2026
Maybe that’s just happenstance, but Sabres coach Lindy Ruff thinks there could be something to it.
—Matthew Fairburn, New York Times, 1 May 2026
Now, photos are supposed to look unplanned and happenstance, even when the content is carefully staged.
—Rachel Hale, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2026
But whether by happenstance or fate, a Kansas City cigar salesman warming himself in the store one day persuaded him that this was the place.
—Kansas City Star, 23 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for happenstance
Cite this Entry
“Happenstance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/happenstance. Accessed 14 May. 2026.
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