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

Today that very same house is known as Loveless Cafe and is more a dining destination than a convenient happenstance for travelers. — Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2026

Tiley’s landing in the Illini tennis program was largely down to happenstance. — Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 31 July 2026

Up to this point, Ruthye has begged Supergirl to help her exact revenge on Krem, which the heroine has refused, so the alignment of their goals ends up a convenient happenstance. — Siddhant Adlakha, Vulture, 26 June 2026

And June 14, which by happenstance is my birthday. — Joseph Konig, PEOPLE, 12 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

happen + circumstance

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for happenstance

• circumstance
• esperance
• exceedance
• refinance
• advance
• askance
• enhance
• expanse
• finance
• freelance
• mischance
• perchance