happening

1 of 2

noun

hap·​pen·​ing ˈha-pə-niŋ 

ˈhap-niŋ

1

: something that happens : occurrence

strange happenings

2

: an event or series of events designed to evoke a spontaneous reaction to sensory, emotional, or spiritual stimuli

3

: something (such as an event) that is particularly interesting, entertaining, or important

The hearing is a happening, one of those unique events … which will be talked about for years.

—Douglas Kiker

happening

2 of 2

adjective

1

: very fashionable : in

a happening hairstyle

2

: offering much stimulating activity

a happening dance club

Synonyms of happening

Noun

• experience
• adventure
• time

Adjective

• fashionable
• stylish
• exclusive
• in
• chic

Examples of happening in a Sentence

Noun

the President's visit to the school was a real happening for teachers and students alike

gave a detailed account of all the happenings of the weekend

Adjective

This is quite a happening town on the weekends.

those are some happening duds, man

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The Kansas City Star’s visual journalists have done a fantastic job of documenting happenings in the KC metro area. —Mara Williams, Kansas City Star, 31 Dec. 2025

Sign up for The Eat Index, our weekly food newsletter, and find out where to eat and get the latest restaurant happenings in Orange County. —Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 31 Dec. 2025

Adjective

The ship is thoughtfully designed to allow for ample space so guests do not feel overcrowded, even in the most happening spots. —Susan Barnes, Southern Living, 10 Dec. 2025

While the overarching trend for fall is still lowest maintenance possible, there's a bit more happening than your typical sunny blondes and balayage brunettes. —Bella Cacciatore, Glamour, 2 Sep. 2020

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1965, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

happening

noun

hap·​pen·​ing

1

: something that happens : occurrence

2

: an event that is especially interesting, entertaining, or important