Serendipity
Word of the Day
What is Serendipity?
noun
The occurrence of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way.
Pronunciation
Why This Word?
Chosen to celebrate life’s delightful surprises and unexpected blessings.
Examples of Use
Here's how this word appears in everyday language:
The invention of penicillin was an act of serendipity.
They stumbled upon the café by serendipity.
Her career success combined talent, timing, and serendipity.
Word Origins
Coined by Horace Walpole from “The Three Princes of Serendip,” a Persian tale
The princes made discoveries by accident and sagacity; from Serendib (Sri Lanka).
First appearance in English: 18th century
Word Family
Related forms of this word:
-
Adjective:
It was a serendipitous meeting.
-
Noun:
By chance, the two friends reconnected.
-
Noun:
Winning the lottery was a fluke.
Around the World
How this word appears in other languages:
- Spanish: serendipia
- French: sérendipité
- German: glücklicher Zufall
- Italian: serendipità
- Portuguese: serendipidade
If you Already Know This Word
If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:
Luck
“Luck” can be good or bad; “serendipity” is happy chance.
Fortuity
“Fortuity” is rare and formal; “serendipity” is warmer.
Coincidence
“Coincidence” notes simultaneity; “serendipity” adds value and joy.
Fun Facts
- Walpole coined “serendipity” in a 1754 letter — a rare case of a literary invention becoming mainstream.
- Sri Lanka was once known as Serendib, giving the tale its name.
Cultural Usage
- Many scientific breakthroughs happen through serendipity.
- The romantic comedy *Serendipity* (2001) popularized the term globally.
Common Mistakes
Sometimes confused with “luck”; “serendipity” is luck plus insight.
Micro Story
By sheer serendipity, she met her future business partner on a delayed train.