bechance

American  

[bih-chans, -chahns] / bɪˈtʃæns, -ˈtʃɑns /

verb (used with or without object)

Archaic.

bechanced, bechancing

1. to befall.

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bechance British  

/ bɪˈtʃɑːns /

verb

1. archaic (intr) to happen (to)

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Usage

What does bechance mean? Bechance is an archaic word meaning to happen to (someone) or to occur, especially by fate or chance. When a word is labeled as archaic in a dictionary, it means that it was commonly used in an earlier time but is rare in present-day usage (except when used to mimic an older style, such as in a historical novel). Bechance can be used with an object (as in troubles will bechance you) or without an object (as in I cannot explain the events that bechanced). Example: He feared that misfortune would bechance him if he stayed in the city, so he fled to the country in hopes of a change.

Etymology

Origin of bechance

First recorded in 1520–30; from phrase by chance

Example Sentences

I cannot forget one passage that behappened me heir: bechance to supper I demanded give he could give me a pullet, he promises me it.

From Publications of the Scottish History Society, Volume 36 Journals of Sir John Lauder Lord Fountainhall with His Observations on Public Affairs and Other Memoranda 1665-1676 by Fountainhall, John Lauder, Lord

What would bechance at Lyonnesse    While I should sojourn there    No prophet durst declare, Nor did the wisest wizard guess What would bechance at Lyonnesse    While I should sojourn there.

From Satires of Circumstance, lyrics and reveries with miscellaneous pieces by Hardy, Thomas

So, fearing lest a worse thing should bechance him, from Abbeville he went up to Paris.

From Aucassin & Nicolette And Other Mediaeval Romances and Legends by Mason, Eugene

Related Words

• ensue
• materialize
• transpire