Luck

/lʌk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The force that seems to operate for good or ill in a person's life, as in shaping circumstances and events.

She had the luck of winning the lottery on her first try.

Success or failure apparently brought by chance rather than through one's own actions.

He attributes his career success to a mix of hard work and good luck.

A success or failure resulting from chance rather than from one's own efforts.

It was just bad luck that he missed his flight.

Fortuitous circumstances; favorable opportunities.

With a little luck, we might catch the early train.

Middle English 'lucc', of uncertain origin, possibly related to the Old Norse 'lucky', referring to happiness or fortune.

lady luck

The personification of good fortune.

bring good luck

To act in a way that is thought to attract favorable outcomes.

bad luck

A situation or event that is unfortunate.

luck of the draw

A result determined purely by chance.

fortunate

Having good luck; lucky.

unlucky

Having or marked by bad luck.

chance

The occurrence of events in the absence of any obvious intention or cause.

good luck

Break a leg! Wishing you good luck!

bad luck

I stepped in a puddle right before work—talk about bad luck!