happiness

noun

hap·​pi·​ness ˈha-pē-nəs How to pronounce happiness (audio)
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 youW. S. Gilbert
2
: felicity, aptness
a striking happiness of expression
3
obsolete : good fortune : prosperity
all happiness bechance to theeWilliam Shakespeare

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
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.
The Wrong Pet Beds Levy says the right type of dog bed is the most essential home item is for a dog's happiness and comfort. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 May 2025 Dylan, a baker’s apprentice, wants to marry her; their journey on his moped is one of the film’s loveliest sequences, an image of freedom and happiness that suggests such a life might be within reach. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 24 May 2025 Handshakes and High Fives Rustin Dodd tells us about the key to workplace happiness that both Joey Votto and Steph Curry have used, with great success. Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 22 May 2025 Lionel drifts through Europe in his twenties and thirties, building a new life of profound success and happiness, and experiencing new loves. Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 22 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for happiness

Word History

Etymology

see happy

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of happiness was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Happiness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/happiness. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

happiness

noun
hap·​pi·​ness ˈhap-i-nəs How to pronounce happiness (audio)
: a state of well-being and contentment : joy

More from Merriam-Webster on happiness

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!