1
as in unaffected
having a relaxed, casual manner
he is completely happy-go-lucky on fishing trips—if he catches something, fine; if he doesn't, that's fine, too
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in nonchalant
having or showing freedom from worries or trouble
went on her happy-go-lucky way, totally unaware that she was strewing litter behind her
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of happy-go-lucky
Perhaps the happy-go-lucky Heisman Trophy winner and national champion can help uplift a team desperate for a spark and new leadership.
—
C J Doon, Sun Sentinel, 20 Jan. 2026
Of course, title notwithstanding, this opener is as gleeful as the rest of the record, as Swift sings about being rescued from a descent into Shakespearian madness by her happy-go-lucky baller.
—Chris Willman, Variety, 3 Oct. 2025
Despite being the spontaneous, happy-go-lucky friend in the group chat, saying yes to a friend’s get-together could lead to you accidentally having to be in three places at once.
—Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025
In the 1986 John Hughes film, Broderick portrayed Ferris Bueller, a happy-go-lucky high schooler who decides to take the day off, and magically has everything go his way.
—Dan Heching, CNN Money, 25 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for happy-go-lucky
C J Doon, Sun Sentinel, 20 Jan. 2026
Of course, title notwithstanding, this opener is as gleeful as the rest of the record, as Swift sings about being rescued from a descent into Shakespearian madness by her happy-go-lucky baller.
—Chris Willman, Variety, 3 Oct. 2025
Despite being the spontaneous, happy-go-lucky friend in the group chat, saying yes to a friend’s get-together could lead to you accidentally having to be in three places at once.
—Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025
In the 1986 John Hughes film, Broderick portrayed Ferris Bueller, a happy-go-lucky high schooler who decides to take the day off, and magically has everything go his way.
—Dan Heching, CNN Money, 25 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for happy-go-lucky
Recent Examples of Synonyms for happy-go-lucky
Adjective
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In an email to employees, Chairman of the Board Michael Wichterich said Expand Energy's move to Houston will be completed by mid-2026 but promised the Oklahoma City workforce will be unaffected by the relocation.—
Josh Kelly,
Oklahoman,
11 Feb. 2026
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Lids are generally more durable and can be reused multiple times, while parchment paper can only be reused a few times if its quality remains unaffected.—
Katie Rosenhouse,
Southern Living,
10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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Others noticed how well Perry and Harris, who play the nonchalant grandfather and seemingly sheltered grandson, bonded on-screen, noting that their chemistry is evident and makes the movie funnier.—
Saleen Martin,
USA Today,
16 Feb. 2026
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As part of his new collection for the brand, Arnold unveiled a new shape—a slightly sloping, almost smile-like pleat that’s simultaneously nonchalant and fully sophisticated.—
Kate McGregor,
Architectural Digest,
13 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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The improvised jazz drifting through the air at the Village Vanguard in New York on a summer night in 1961 — soft, caressing, mellow, smoky — is one thing.—
David Rooney,
HollywoodReporter,
13 Feb. 2026
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The music was intimidating—funk and bebop, Afro-Caribbean—but Don was patient, somehow both meticulous and mellow.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
13 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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The boucle fabric adds texture to make the sweater look and feel extra cozy, while the off-the-shoulder finish channels carefree, casual style.—
Merrell Readman,
Travel + Leisure,
11 Feb. 2026
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For a more youthful, carefree hairstyle, follow Kate Hudson's lead and go for a looser 'do with face-framing tendrils.—
Audrey Noble,
InStyle,
10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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But as serious news outlets have increasingly concentrated on the high end, a downmarket digital ecosystem for financial information has emerged for casual investors and day traders.—
Max Tani,
semafor.com,
16 Feb. 2026
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After 40 years beachside (and gaining a casual, semi-riotous rep for all the day-drinking amid the sand and surf), the Independent Spirit Awards has shacked up at the Hollywood Palladium.—
Anna Cafolla,
Vogue,
16 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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How the Blade Angels Got Their Name The story behind the team’s now-famous nickname is as fun and lighthearted as the friendship itself.—
Hanna Wickes,
Miami Herald,
17 Feb. 2026
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Wrigley and Bree’s connection comes from a more lighthearted place.—
Olivia Truffaut-Wong,
Vulture,
17 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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Pair your pick with easygoing trousers and pumps to dress it up, or go with track pants and slim sneakers for a more casual look.—
Jake Henry Smith,
Glamour,
4 Feb. 2026
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He was known for the warm bass vocals and easygoing presence that helped anchor the group’s sophisticated harmonies and modern pop sensibility.—
Mike Barnes,
HollywoodReporter,
4 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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Hitters tend to struggle with hitting for power in the weeks and months following hamate surgery, but again, the Mets are unconcerned at the moment.—
Abbey Mastracco,
New York Daily News,
11 Feb. 2026
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One reason why some investors remain unconcerned is that the breakeven point for nonfarm payrolls is lower, given slower labor force growth in part because of changes to immigration.—
Sarah Min,
CNBC,
10 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Happy-go-lucky.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/happy-go-lucky. Accessed 19 Feb. 2026.
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