happening

[hap-uh-ning]

noun

1. something that happens; occurrence; event.

   Synonyms: case, affair, instance, episode, incident

2. an unconventional dramatic or artistically orchestrated performance, often a series of discontinuous events involving audience participation.

3. any event considered worthwhile, unusual, or interesting.

happening

/ ˈhæpənɪŋ, ˈhæpnɪŋ /

noun

1. an occurrence; event

2. an improvised or spontaneous display or performance consisting of bizarre and haphazard events

adjective

1. informal,  fashionable and up-to-the-minute

Word History and Origins

Origin of happening¹

First recorded in 1545–55; 1965–70 happening for def. 2; happen + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

And people are less bothered about being filmed in public because that’s already happening with smartphones.

From Los Angeles Times

What is happening in France now is the conjuncture of several crises at once: political, economic, and social – and that is what makes the moment feel so significant.

From BBC

Whatever else is happening, I’m dealing with the reality of a thousand lives in prison.

From Los Angeles Times

“What is interesting here is, why is only this happening on the left and not the right?” he asked.

From Los Angeles Times

"From show-stopping classical music, to world-class contemporary art, and unexpected immersive performances - it's all happening at the Southbank Centre next year."

From BBC

Related Words

• accident 
• adventure 
• circumstance 
• incident 
• milestone 
• phenomenon 
• proceeding