happen
UK[ˈhæpən]US[ˈhæpən]
v
to take place, especially without being planned
v
to do or be something by chance
Etymology
the word 'happen' originates from the middle english 'happen', meaning 'to come about by chance'. this, in turn, is derived from the old norse noun 'happ', which signified 'chance' or 'good fortune'. the core concept embedded in its history is one of accidental occurrence or fortuitous event. over time, the meaning broadened from specifically chance events to encompass any event that takes place, whether planned or not, while still retaining its strong association with serendipity in certain contexts.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form derived from the middle english word 'happen', which is related to the old norse word 'happ' (meaning chance, good luck).
Examples
the accident happened at the intersection.
i happened to see an old friend in the supermarket yesterday.
what will happen if we miss the deadline?