Happy means feeling or showing pleasure, contentment, or joy.
From Middle English “happy” meaning lucky or fortunate, from “hap” for chance or luck. Over time, the meaning shifted from ‘lucky’ to the feeling that comes from good fortune.
The deep link between “happy” and “luck” reminds us that many cultures saw joy as something that happens to you, not just something you choose. It’s also why we say “happen,” “perhaps,” and “mishap”—they’re all about chance.
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