happen

verb

ˈha-pən How to pronounce happen (audio)
Definition of happennext
as in to occur
to take place did anything exciting happen over the summer?

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of happen Don’t miss out on more of our favorite deals happening at Amazon this week, including a barely-there wireless bra and hydrating Neutrogena moisturizer. — Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 5 Aug. 2026 A lot like what has happened with Tom Holland and Zendaya, these two just aren’t interested in people knowing about their personal life. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 5 Aug. 2026 The space agency doesn’t expect that to happen until next week. — Marcia Dunn, Fortune, 5 Aug. 2026 Those seeking re-election this fall wouldn’t want that to happen. — Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for happen
Recent Examples of Synonyms for happen
  1. occur
  2. come
  3. be
  4. do
Verb
  • The incident occurred at an Embassy Suites, located in the 3400 block of International Boulevard in Hapeville, Fox 5 Atlanta reported.
    — Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Aug. 2026
  • This eclipse is particularly notable for its low solar altitude in Spain, where totality occurs close to sunset.
    — Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026
Definition of occur
Verb
  • The Supersonic™ Travel comes with a styling concentrator attachment that works well for polished, event-ready styles.
    — Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Still, the resignation comes with just weeks before Johnson introduces that budget, his fourth, which will also have to address a likely large 2027 deficit.
    — Alice Yin, Chicago Tribune, 4 Aug. 2026
Definition of come
Verb
  • This June, there were about 79,000, according to Mobile Pathways' data.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 1 Aug. 2026
  • There is a public hearing to discuss the site plan for the data center.
    — Elizabeth Campbell, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 Aug. 2026
Definition of be
Verb
  • There’s not a whole lot that can be done to harden them against bombs and drones.
    — David Goldman, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026
  • The famed highway—which turns 100 this year—passes through bustling cities, natural landmarks, and quirky roadside attractions, so there’s plenty of things to see (and do) along the way.
    — Kelsey Mulvey, Vogue, 3 Aug. 2026
Definition of do

Phrases Containing happen

Browse Nearby Words

happed
happen
happen (by)
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Cite this Entry

“Happen.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/happen. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on happen

Nglish: Translation of happen for Spanish Speakers

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