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 of happiness

• 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

Their citizens have access to healthcare, childcare and educational opportunities regardless of income, and these nations consistently rank among the world’s highest in measures of quality of life and happiness. — Tom Zirpoli, Baltimore Sun, 18 Aug. 2026

Studies have shown that losing yourself in the night sky can help calm the nervous system and increase happiness. — Jen Murphy, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Aug. 2026

Of course, that’s why Meta’s various platforms are so popular with young people relentlessly pursuing happiness. — John Tamny, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

In the second experiment, 12 dogs viewed faces expressing happiness, anger, fear and sadness. — Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 18 Aug. 2026

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