happiness

American  

[hap-ee-nis] / ˈhæp i nɪs /

noun

1. the quality or state of being happy.

   Synonyms:

   satisfaction, enjoyment, delight, contentedness, bliss, exhilaration, joy, pleasure

   Antonyms:

   misery

2. good fortune; pleasure; contentment; joy.

   Synonyms:

   delight, contentedness, bliss, exhilaration, joy, pleasure, satisfaction, enjoyment

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Related Words

Happiness, bliss, contentment, felicity imply an active or passive state of pleasure or pleasurable satisfaction. Happiness results from the possession or attainment of what one considers good: the happiness of visiting one's family. Bliss is unalloyed happiness or supreme delight: the bliss of perfect companionship. Contentment is a peaceful kind of happiness in which one rests without desires, even though every wish may not have been gratified: contentment in one's surroundings. Felicity is a formal word for happiness of an especially fortunate or intense kind: to wish a young couple felicity in life.

Other Word Forms

• overhappiness noun

Etymology

Origin of happiness

First recorded in 1520–30; happy + -ness

Compare meaning

How does happiness compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• happiness vs. contentment

Related Words

• bliss
• contentment
• delight
• elation
• enjoyment
• euphoria
• exhilaration
• glee
• joy
• jubilation
• laughter
• optimism
• peace of mind
• pleasure
• prosperity
• well-being