DictionaryAI

happening

HAP-uh-ning/ˈhæpɪnɪŋ/

Noun pluralhappenings

4 meanings of happening

Practice

  1. 1
    taking placeverb
    Present participle of happen. Use it after "is" or "was" for something going on, now or in the past.

    Something strange is happening in the kitchen.

    I keep wondering what is happening next door.

    UsageSay what is happening, not incorrect: what is happened.

    Note
  2. 2
    eventnouncountable
    An event or thing that takes place.

    The strange happening kept the whole town talking for weeks.

    Nobody could explain the happenings at the old house.

    UsageOften used as happenings: strange happenings at the old house.

    Similarevent, occurrence, incident, episode, occasion

  3. 3
    trendyadjectiveslang
    Exciting, busy and popular right now.

    Like a party that everyone wants to be at.

    That new club is a really happening place on weekends.

    Downtown feels more happening since the cafes opened.

    UsageUsually comes before a noun: a happening place.

Less common meaning

  1. 4
    improvised shownouncountable
    An unusual art show or event, often made up as it goes, where the crowd may join in.

    The artist organized a happening in the park where everyone painted together.

    Their happening invited the whole audience onto the stage.

    Note

happening is a form of happen

happen, verb: To take place or occur as an event. Full entry

Forms
happenhappens he/she/ithappening -ing formhappened past tense, past participle
Spelling
happen → happening: add -ing

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of happening apart? Answer 4 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origins

Meanings 1, 3

Made from the verb "happen" plus "-ing".

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 1 fact

Meanings 2, 4

Made from "happen" plus "-ing". The art meaning was made popular by Allan Kaprow.

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 2 facts