happiness

noun

hap·​pi·​ness ˈha-pē-nəs How to pronounce happiness (audio)
Synonyms of happiness
1
a
: a state of well-being and contentment : joy
b
: a pleasurable or satisfying experience
I wish you every happiness in life.
I had the happiness of seeing you—W. S. Gilbert
2
: felicity, aptness
a striking happiness of expression
3
obsolete : good fortune : prosperity
All happiness bechance to thee …—William Shakespeare

Synonyms of happiness

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Examples of happiness in a Sentence

They made a toast to long life and happiness. her happiness was complete when she got her very own house
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Adam proposes marriage to Cathy, promising protection and happiness. — Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 2 Sep. 2026 The strange experience of collecting mulberry leaves reminds me of the sudden happiness that a pack of sweets brought to me as a child. — Jonathan Flint, Harpers Magazine, 1 Sep. 2026 Of course, that doesn’t mean giving away money automatically produces more happiness than earning it. — True Tamplin, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Being single again felt like a step backward, further away than ever from happiness. — Andrea Javor, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for happiness

Word History

Etymology

see happy

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of happiness was in the 15th century

Rhymes for happiness

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Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Happiness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/happiness. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

happiness

noun
hap·​pi·​ness ˈhap-i-nəs How to pronounce happiness (audio)
: a state of well-being and contentment : joy

More from Merriam-Webster on happiness

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about happiness

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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