happens

VERB

come to pass; occur

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appear arise arrive crop up develop fall go on hit materialize meet pass result take effect take place transpire

STRONG

befall betide bump chance down ensue eventuate follow issue light proceed recur shake smoke spring stumble supervene

WEAK

be found become a fact become known become of come about come after come into being come into existence come off luck present itself stumble upon turn out turn up what goes

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cease disappear fail halt lose stop

STRONG

precede

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There’s also George Lucas, who happens to be alive behind glass as part of the museum collection.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 30, 2026

As happens from time to time to this day, Jefferson also began to have doubts about the capabilities of the everyday Americans in whom he, Adams and other revolutionary leaders had placed so much confidence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 30, 2026

To see what happens when a student is not accepted for who they are, look no further than the other plaintiff in Tuesday’s case: L.H.

From Slate • Jun. 30, 2026

"I think it needs daylight shining on it and then we can have a proper conversation about why this sometimes happens and how we make sure that it doesn't keep on happening."

From BBC • Jun. 30, 2026

“A coincidence,” Glory said, “is something that happens by chance.”

From "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova