Synonyms of episode

episode

noun

ˈe-pə-ˌsōd 

as in event

something that happens

I'm trying to forget the whole embarrassing episode

Synonyms & Similar Words

• event
• incident
• thing
• circumstance
• occurrence
• occasion
• happening
• time
• affair
• accident
• page
• experience
• coincidence
• phenomenon
• adventure
• landmark
• news
• hap
• turning point
• milestone
• crisis
• fluke
• emergency
• freak
• juncture
• deed
• achievement
• co-occurrence
• milepost
• happenstance
• feat
• tidings
• exploit
• happenchance

Synonym Chooser

How is the word episode distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of episode are circumstance, event, incident, and occurrence. While all these words mean "something that happens or takes place," episode stresses the distinctiveness or apartness of an incident.

a brief romantic episode in a life devoted to work

When might circumstance be a better fit than episode?

The words circumstance and episode can be used in similar contexts, but circumstance implies a specific detail attending an action or event as part of its setting or background.

couldn't recall the exact circumstances

When can event be used instead of episode?

The meanings of event and episode largely overlap; however, event usually implies an occurrence of some importance and frequently one having antecedent cause.

the events following the assassination

When could incident be used to replace episode?

The words incident and episode are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, incident suggests an occurrence of brief duration or secondary importance.

a minor wartime incident

Where would occurrence be a reasonable alternative to episode?

While in some cases nearly identical to episode, occurrence may apply to a happening without intent, volition, or plan.

an encounter that was a chance occurrence

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of episode

In addition, Netflix also released some first look images from all eight episodes, which are embedded below. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 12 Aug. 2026

Built around an on-foot pursuit in the woods, the episode is a masterclass in tension building and sacrificial storytelling, claiming more than one of the main characters by the end of the hour. — Hunter Ingram, Variety, 12 Aug. 2026

Love Island watch parties proved a boon for bars, while Peacock partnered with the AMC theater chain to screen a particularly drama-heavy episode in several locations. — Mia Galuppo, HollywoodReporter, 12 Aug. 2026

Listen to the full conversation The full In Your Corner podcast episode explores retirement withdrawal strategies, the 4% rule, Social Security, inflation, healthcare costs and practical steps retirees can take to make their savings last. — Joshua Sidorowicz, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026