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 of happiness

• joy
• bliss

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

Not many 19th century women were fortunate to find love and happiness with not one but two distinguished husbands. —Richard Selcer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Dec. 2025

In 2021, a study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry sought to explore the association with birth order in the family unit and mental health problems, self-esteem, resilience and happiness. —Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2025

And Jonny Diamond‘s happiness this week came care of people. —Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 5 Dec. 2025

Play sparks happiness, evokes nostalgia, and inspires new ideas. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Dec. 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