accident
/-dɛnt/
UK: /ˈæk.sɪ.dənt/
accident
English
Noun Top 893
American (Lessac)
(medium)
Female
0.8s
American (Amy)
(medium)
Female
0.9s
American (Ryan)
(medium)
Male
0.6s
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Definition
An unexpected event with negative consequences occurring without the intention of the one suffering the consequences, and (in the strict sense) not directly caused by humans.
Etymology
First attested in the late 14th century. From Middle English accident, from Old French accident, from Latin accidēns, present active participle of accidō (“happen”); from ad (“to”) + cadō (“fall”). See cadence, case. In the sense “unintended pregnancy”, first attested in 1932.
Example Sentences
- "to die by an accident such as an act of God"
- "Wherein I spake of most disastrous chances, / Of moving accidents by flood and field[…]"
- "There was a huge accident on I5 involving 15 automobiles."
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