What does synchronicity mean?
Synchronicity is a noun meaning the simultaneous occurrence of events, phenomena, or experiences, especially when their coincidence seems meaningful. It can describe a formal subject, as in linguistic research that examines a language at one point in time rather than across its history. In contemporary spiritual and psychological language, however, it most often refers to a striking coincidence that appears to connect separate events or carry personal significance. For example, someone may describe hearing a song associated with a deceased relative at precisely the moment of a meaningful memory as an instance of synchronicity. The word carries a contemplative or sometimes mystical tone and should not be treated as proof that events are causally connected. Its usefulness lies in capturing the sense that simultaneous experiences can form a meaningful pattern, even when their relationship remains uncertain or unexplained.
nounSynchronicity is the study or condition of events occurring at the same time, especially in relation to a particular system or moment. In modern spiritual and psychological writing, it often refers to the meaningful coincidence of two or more unrelated events.
- The occurrence of two or more events or phenomena at the same time, especially when their relationship appears significant.
- In linguistics, the study of a language at a particular point in time, as opposed to its historical development.
- In modern spiritual and psychological discourse, a meaningful coincidence viewed as a sign of connection or significance.
"The apparent synchronicity of meeting an old friend at exactly the moment she called seemed impossible."
"The synchronicity of the two discoveries suggested that the teams had been working on complementary problems."
"Many people describe the chance encounter with a long-lost friend as a powerful moment of synchronicity."
The plural is uncommon; the word is usually used as an uncountable noun.
"The account describes several synchronisms between the dream and the events of the day."
Sometimes the strangest pattern is not hidden in the past but in two unrelated moments sharing the same present.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does synchronicity come from?
Synchronicity comes from English synchronous, which was borrowed from Greek synchronos, meaning “simultaneous” or “occurring at the same time.” The Greek elements syn- mean “together” and khronos means “time.” English also borrowed synchronise from the related Greek synchronismos, a word based on the same roots, while chronology comes from a related term meaning “a science or account of time.”
Related word forms
How synchronicity is actually used
In general use, the word often carries a reflective or spiritual connotation and suggests more than ordinary coincidence. In linguistics, it is a technical term for examining language synchronically rather than through its history.
Easily confused with synchronicity
Synchronicity concerns events or experiences occurring at the same time, whereas synchronisation is the practical process of making two or more activities or systems occur in step.
Coincidence means two events happening together, often by chance, while synchronicity usually adds a sense of meaningfulness or significance to that temporal overlap.