Serendipity - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Serendipity is the occurrence of pleasant or valuable discoveries by chance, often when not actively searching for them. It describes happy accidents or unexpected good fortune.
Definition:
The occurrence of fortunate discoveries by chance or accident.
Synonyms:
fluke, luck, fortuity, happenstance
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
misfortune, calamity, mishap
Common Collocations:
happy accident, lucky find, chance discovery, unexpected joy
Derivatives:
serendipitous, serendipitously
Usage Tips:
Use "serendipity" to describe pleasant surprises or unplanned but beneficial events.
Common Phrases:
stroke of serendipity, pure serendipity, serendipity at work
Etymology:
Coined from the Persian fairy tale "The Three Princes of Serendip," known for making accidental discoveries.
Examples:
- 1. Finding the old photo was pure serendipity during our move.
- 2. Their meeting was a beautiful example of serendipity in action.
- 3. She attributed her success to hard work and a bit of serendipity.
- 4. The scientist’s breakthrough came through sheer serendipity in the lab.