happenstance
noun
hap·pen·stance
ˈha-pən-ˌstan(t)s 
ˈha-pᵊm-
: a circumstance especially that is due to chance
They came together by mere happenstance.
happenstance
adjective
Examples of happenstance in a Sentence
Our meeting was pure happenstance.
We met each other by happenstance.
It was an agreeable happenstance that we met.
Recent Examples on the Web
Scientists have uncovered the existence of a binary star system close to the black hole near the center of the Milky Way galaxy, confirming a hypothesis made by happenstance nearly a century ago, according to a paper published in Nature Communications on Wednesday.
—
Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 17 Dec. 2024
Yet, because of the happenstance that Penny is white and Neely was black, Bragg decided that social justice demanded a scalp, regardless of what actual justice might say about the matter.
—The Editors, National Review, 9 Dec. 2024
Darden’s said his first encounter with legendary actor and philanthropist was by mere happenstance, thanks a recommendation from his Hole in the Wall Gang Camp counselor.
—Tim Lammers, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024
The 16-minute video introduces elements of dance into the labors of everyday life, a subtle interruption of routine that heightens attention to happenstance.
—Kelly Presutti, ARTnews.com, 27 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for happenstance 
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Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 17 Dec. 2024
Yet, because of the happenstance that Penny is white and Neely was black, Bragg decided that social justice demanded a scalp, regardless of what actual justice might say about the matter.
—The Editors, National Review, 9 Dec. 2024
Darden’s said his first encounter with legendary actor and philanthropist was by mere happenstance, thanks a recommendation from his Hole in the Wall Gang Camp counselor.
—Tim Lammers, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024
The 16-minute video introduces elements of dance into the labors of everyday life, a subtle interruption of routine that heightens attention to happenstance.
—Kelly Presutti, ARTnews.com, 27 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for happenstance
Dictionary Entries Near happenstance
Cite this Entry
“Happenstance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/happenstance. Accessed 10 Jan. 2025.
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