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
By happenstance, Planetary Ventures is undertaking a wide-ranging modernization and restoration of the historic Hangar One in Mountain View.
—
George Avalos, Mercury News, 22 Dec. 2025
The project came together by sheer happenstance when Halon Entertainment visual effects designer Jess Marley traveled to Santa Cruz to see his family.
—Molly McCrea, CBS News, 18 Dec. 2025
In a sometimes sloppy tilt-a-whirl of a game, though, this particular play was anything but happenstance.
—Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 1 Dec. 2025
That performance didn’t come by mere happenstance, though.
—Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 14 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for happenstance
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
George Avalos, Mercury News, 22 Dec. 2025
The project came together by sheer happenstance when Halon Entertainment visual effects designer Jess Marley traveled to Santa Cruz to see his family.
—Molly McCrea, CBS News, 18 Dec. 2025
In a sometimes sloppy tilt-a-whirl of a game, though, this particular play was anything but happenstance.
—Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 1 Dec. 2025
That performance didn’t come by mere happenstance, though.
—Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 14 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for happenstance
Cite this Entry
“Happenstance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/happenstance. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share