What does luck mean?
Luck describes the influence of chance on events, especially when the result is favourable. In expressions such as "good luck" and "bad luck", it refers broadly to fortune, whether fortunate or unfortunate. The phrase "a stroke of luck" emphasizes a sudden and unexpected advantage, while "the luck of the draw" refers to the result of chance selection. Luck is not necessarily mysterious or irrational: it can simply describe the way an outcome occurred by chance rather than through deliberate skill or intention. In ordinary use, the word often carries emotional significance, expressing hope, gratitude, disappointment, or resignation. It is also used figuratively when an event is unexpectedly successful, as in saying that someone has the good luck to secure an opportunity. Despite its association with unpredictability, the term remains a familiar and useful part of English for discussing outcomes beyond a person’s control.
The favourable or unfavourable outcome of an event considered to be governed partly or wholly by chance; fortune or chance in general.
"With a little luck, the weather will clear before the match begins."
Often used in fixed expressions such as "good luck", "bad luck", and "a stroke of luck". In British English, "luck out" is an informal verb meaning to experience a lucky escape.
To achieve a successful or fortunate outcome by chance, especially in an unexpectedly fortunate way.
"We were lucky to catch the last train after the delay."
Informal and especially common in the expression "luck out"; in British English it can mean to escape an unpleasant situation by good fortune.
The plural is uncommon in ordinary use, but it is standard when referring to separate instances of fortune or favourable outcomes.
"The passengers counted their lucks when the emergency flight was delayed only briefly."
Luck is the part of chance we notice most when it goes our way—and least when it does not.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does luck come from?
The word comes from Middle English forms such as "lucke" and "luk", used in senses connected with chance and fortune. These developed from Old Norse "luk", meaning chance or fortune, and ultimately reflect a Germanic root associated with luck or chance. The modern forms "lucky", "luckless", and "luckily" continue the same inherited word family.
Related word forms
How luck is actually used
The word is neutral in register when referring to chance, but expressions such as "good luck" and "bad luck" are common in everyday conversation. In "a stroke of luck", it refers to a sudden fortunate event.
Easily confused with luck
Luck is the favourable chance or fortune itself, whereas lucky describes a person, result, or event that is favoured by good fortune.