happiness

noun

hap·​pi·​ness ˈha-pē-nəs 

1

a

: a state of well-being and contentment : joy

b

: a pleasurable or satisfying experience

I wish you every happiness in life.

I had the happiness of seeing you

—W. S. Gilbert

2

: felicity, aptness

a striking happiness of expression

3

obsolete : good fortune : prosperity

all happiness bechance to thee

—William Shakespeare

Synonyms

• beatitude
• blessedness
• bliss
• blissfulness
• felicity
• gladness
• joy
• warm fuzzies

Examples of happiness in a Sentence

They made a toast to long life and happiness.

her happiness was complete when she got her very own house

Recent Examples on the Web

Small changes in your behavior and surroundings can set you on course for happiness. —The New York Times, New York Times, 1 May 2025

The actress and celebrity chef, who recently turned 65, is continuing to focus on her health and happiness. —Angel Saunders, People.com, 30 Apr. 2025

In the workplace, this includes happiness but goes beyond it to encompass purpose, resilience, energy, belonging, continuous learning, and strong relationships. —Amy Blankson, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025

The second thing is that a lot of our discussion about happiness is overly self-centered. —Renée Onque, CNBC, 30 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see happy

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for happiness

• unhappiness

Kids Definition

happiness

noun

hap·​pi·​ness ˈhap-i-nəs 

: a state of well-being and contentment : joy