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Meaning of Word

Serendipity refers to the occurrence of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way, often when least expected.

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Serendipity (noun): The fortunate discovery of something valuable or pleasant by chance.
2. A happy or unexpected coincidence leading to a desirable outcome.
3. The ability to recognize and make use of fortunate occurrences.

History and Origin

The term serendipity was coined by English author Horace Walpole in 1754. It originates from the Persian tale The Three Princes of Serendip, where the protagonists made discoveries by chance while on a journey. Serendip is the old Persian name for Sri Lanka (Ceylon). The word gradually entered common usage to describe lucky or fortuitous discoveries.

Detailed Explanation

Serendipity describes an event or situation where unexpected opportunities arise, often leading to positive or beneficial results. It is commonly associated with discoveries, inventions, or coincidences where an unintended outcome turns out to be fortunate. For example, scientific breakthroughs like penicillin were discovered serendipitously. In everyday life, serendipity reflects moments of surprise and joy that seem to occur without deliberate planning or effort.

Example Sentences

1. Finding her dream job so close to home was pure serendipity.
2. The scientist attributed his groundbreaking discovery to serendipity.
3. They met by serendipity at a coffee shop and became lifelong friends.
4. His visit to the antique store led to a serendipitous find of a rare book.
5. The artist believed serendipity played a role in inspiring her masterpiece.
6. Serendipity often brings unexpected joy into our lives.
7. The traveler stumbled upon a quaint village by serendipity.
8. Some of the best recipes were created through serendipitous accidents in the kitchen.
9. He thanked serendipity for introducing him to a mentor who changed his life.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Fortuity: The occurrence of events by chance in a fortunate way.
2. Luck: Favorable outcomes that happen unexpectedly.
3. Coincidence: An accidental yet seemingly planned connection of events.
4. Happenstance: A chance circumstance or situation.
5. Providence: Divine or spiritual intervention resulting in fortunate outcomes.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Chance: Random or accidental occurrences.
2. Fate: Predestined or inevitable outcomes, often viewed positively.
3. Accident: An unplanned event, sometimes leading to positive results.
4. Discovery: Finding something unexpected, often serendipitously.
5. Synchronicity: The meaningful coincidence of events with no apparent connection.

Antonyms

1. Misfortune: Bad luck or an unfortunate turn of events.
2. Planned: Deliberate and prearranged, not left to chance.
3. Predictability: The quality of being expected or foreseen.
4. Intentionality: Deliberate actions or outcomes.
5. Unluckiness: The state of experiencing unfavorable events.