Definition of eventnext
1
2
as in possibility
something that might happen in the event of rain, graduation ceremonies will be held indoors

Synonyms & Similar Words

3
4

Synonym Chooser

How is the word event distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of event are circumstance, episode, incident, and occurrence. While all these words mean "something that happens or takes place," event usually implies an occurrence of some importance and frequently one having antecedent cause.

the events following the assassination

When can circumstance be used instead of event?

The words circumstance and event are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, circumstance implies a specific detail attending an action or event as part of its setting or background.

couldn't recall the exact circumstances

When would episode be a good substitute for event?

In some situations, the words episode and event are roughly equivalent. However, episode stresses the distinctiveness or apartness of an incident.

a brief romantic episode in a life devoted to work

When is incident a more appropriate choice than event?

While in some cases nearly identical to event, incident suggests an occurrence of brief duration or secondary importance.

a minor wartime incident

When might occurrence be a better fit than event?

Although the words occurrence and event have much in common, occurrence may apply to a happening without intent, volition, or plan.

an encounter that was a chance occurrence

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 event Predictive markets like Kalshi and Polymarket, where users can bet on sports, politics, cultural events and more, have exploded in popularity in recent years. Kate Wolffe, Sacbee.com, 17 Mar. 2026 The event will take place on Monday, March 23, just a few days after the new album drops on March 20. Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 16 Mar. 2026 If Central Command succeeds in setting the conditions for tanker traffic to resume—and potentially, for the United States to cut off the regime’s financial lifeblood on Kharg—the stage would be set for history-changing events to follow. Richard Goldberg, The Atlantic, 16 Mar. 2026 Saunders said his introduction came when a friend asked him to fill in as Santa during a holiday event. Michael Cuviello, Dallas Morning News, 16 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for event
Recent Examples of Synonyms for event
Noun
  • The department gave the following details about the incident, noting that no police officers fired weapons or were injured.
    Kristi Miller, Twin Cities, 16 Mar. 2026
  • There is an incident on I-35 between 20th Street/Exit 1D (SB) and I-70/US-169/US-24/Exit 2.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 16 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Reuters said its researchers ruled out that possibility.
    Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 17 Mar. 2026
  • The Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, issued an Enhanced to Moderate Risk of Severe Weather on Monday, which includes dangerous thunderstorms, damaging winds, and the possibility of a few strong tornadoes.
    Adam Thompson, CBS News, 16 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Pope hit a monster triple from the corner put the Horns up 75-68 with 1 minute, 29 seconds left and after Vokietaitis final miss, Mark calmly sunk four straight throws down the stretch to keep the Horns in the tournament.
    Cedric Golden, Austin American Statesman, 20 Mar. 2026
  • The aesthetics of a tournament matter.
    Nick Miller, New York Times, 20 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Much of Sunday night featured a baseball game played in the middle of a concert put on by a dozen marching bands playing at 100 birthday parties.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Mar. 2026
  • The president is fighting against historical headwinds for the party in power and, like President Joe Biden before him, is navigating voter anxiety about the cost of living in America.
    David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 16 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The visiting Lancers managed to draw things level at 3-3 by the end of the first quarter, after two late scores, including two short-range finishes by Ella Avery and Kylea Keefe.
    Clark Fahrenthold, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Mar. 2026
  • The best coaches will set aside time to work on new drills, figure out lineups, game plan for future opponents, and many other things that go under the radar but can make-or-break a season.
    Jack Murray, Boston Herald, 19 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The judge in the case did not force the issue, agreeing with Leiweke’s attorneys who said that trying to compel Leiweke to be deposed in the Live Nation case while facing criminal prosecution by the Justice Department violated his rights.
    Paul Flahive, Austin American Statesman, 19 Mar. 2026
  • In any case, its proximity is ideal for those looking for quick and easy access to nature.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Pitchers throw every day in season between competition days, bullpens, flat ground sessions and box drills off of an incline from 35 feet out.
    Shawn McFarland, Dallas Morning News, 20 Mar. 2026
  • The energy during that game was electric; the crowds, the fans, the rival fans and our competition were all charged, and everyone was on the edge of their seats.
    Rick Cantu, Austin American Statesman, 20 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The dugout celebration magnified with each runner that crossed home plate.
    Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 17 Mar. 2026
  • After nearly 100 years, an overdue celebration.
    Ren Clayton, CBS News, 17 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Event.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/event. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on event

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!

More from Merriam-Webster