# serendipity

/ˌsɛɹənˈdɪpɪti/ (US) · /sˌɛɹɪndˈɪpɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/serendipity
Updated: 2026-04-25

## Definition

the feeling of finding something great by accident.

For teachers: the occurrence of fortunate discoveries made unintentionally.

## Examples

- Finding that quiet bookshop was pure serendipity.
- Their collaboration began by serendipity — both researchers reached for the same book in the library stacks.
- The discovery of penicillin is often cited as an instance of scientific serendipity, though Fleming's prepared mind is what let him recognise the significance of a contaminated plate.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.