happiness
UK[ˈhæp.i.nəs]US[ˈhæp.i.nəs]
n
the state of feeling or showing pleasure
n
the quality or state of being happy
Etymology
the core of 'happiness' is the middle english word 'hap', borrowed from old norse 'happ', meaning 'chance' or 'good fortune'. this root is traceable to proto-germanic 'hap-', signifying a random event. the addition of the old english suffix '-nes', used to form nouns of state or quality, transformed the concept from an external circumstance ('good luck') into an internal, enduring condition. over centuries, the meaning evolved from being favored by chance to denoting a more stable and personal emotional state of contentment and well-being, reflecting a shift from fate-dependent fortune to a self-possessed quality.
Analysis
the word is a simplex formation from the middle english 'hap' + the suffix '-ness'. 'hap' is of old norse origin, meaning 'chance, good luck'. '-ness' is a native english suffix of old english origin used to form abstract nouns indicating a state or quality.
Examples
true happiness often comes from simple things in life.
her face was glowing with happiness at the news.
the study aimed to measure the level of happiness in different communities.