Main Entry: oc·cur·rence

Pronunciation: \ə-ˈkər-ən(t)s, -ˈkə-rən(t)s\

Function: noun

Date: 1539

1 : something that occurs <a startling occurrence>
2 : the action or instance of occurring <the repeated occurrence of petty theft in the locker room>

synonyms occurrence, event, incident, episode, circumstance mean something that happens or takes place. occurrence may apply to a happening without intent, volition, or plan <an encounter that was a chance occurrence>. event usually implies an occurrence of some importance and frequently one having antecedent cause <the events following the assassination>. incident suggests an occurrence of brief duration or secondary importance <a minor wartime incident>. episode stresses the distinctiveness or apartness of an incident <a brief romantic episode in a life devoted to work>. circumstance implies a specific detail attending an action or event as part of its setting or background <couldn't recall the exact circumstances>.