What does serendipity mean?
Serendipity names the fortunate discovery of something valuable or delightful by chance, especially when the discovery was not sought through deliberate planning. It can also refer more broadly to a chance event that produces an unexpectedly good outcome. The word is often used to describe meetings, encounters, opportunities, and successes that feel unexpectedly fortunate, as in “a happy piece of serendipity.” Its tone is positive and appreciative, though it can sometimes suggest that a result depended on luck rather than skill or intention. Because it comes from a literary invention rather than a long history of ordinary English usage, it has a slightly whimsical, distinctive flavor. In formal writing, “serendipity” works well when the chance element is important; for ordinary accidental good fortune, “chance,” “luck,” or “fortuitous discovery” may be more precise. The related adjective serendipitous and adverb serendipitously express the same connection between fortunate chance and a valued result.
nounThe occurrence or discovery of something valuable, delightful, or beneficial by chance, especially when it is unexpectedly fortunate.
- The discovery of something valuable or interesting by chance.
- A chance occurrence or development that produces an unexpectedly good result.
"Finding the perfect apartment after a single day of searching was pure serendipity."
"Their chance conversation at the station led to a job offer and a lifelong friendship—a remarkable piece of serendipity."
"The discovery of the manuscript was widely described as an extraordinary example of serendipity."
The plural is uncommon but standard when referring to distinct fortunate discoveries, encounters, or outcomes.
"The journal chronicled the small serendipities that brought the researchers together."
Serendipity began as the name of a fairy-tale land before becoming our elegant term for the universe's most welcome accidents.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of serendipity
Serendipity was coined by the English writer Horace Walpole in the mid-18th century, drawing on Serendip, the imaginary land in his fairy tale The Three Princes of Serendip. The fictional name was inspired by the older place-name Serendip, which was associated with a Persian term for a land of cinnamon or amber. From that literary setting, the word developed its modern sense of a fortunate discovery made by chance.
Related word forms
How serendipity is actually used
The word is usually used in a positive or appreciative sense. It is typically uncountable, although the plural form can refer to separate fortunate discoveries or developments. It has a slightly literary and whimsical quality and may suggest that good fortune played a major role.