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
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
Maury became a travel specialist by happenstance while living overseas (she’s called Hong Kong, South Africa, France, Australia, and Vietnam home at different points in her life).
—The Editors, Robb Report, 20 Apr. 2026
What followed, however, has been anything but happenstance.
—Susan Caminiti, CNBC, 16 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for happenstance
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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
Maury became a travel specialist by happenstance while living overseas (she’s called Hong Kong, South Africa, France, Australia, and Vietnam home at different points in her life).
—The Editors, Robb Report, 20 Apr. 2026
What followed, however, has been anything but happenstance.
—Susan Caminiti, CNBC, 16 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 1 May. 2026.
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