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Haplessly: meaning, definitions and examples

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haplessly

 

[ ˈhæp.ləs.li ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

lack of luck

Haplessly refers to doing something in an unfortunate or unlucky manner. It is often used to describe actions that result in unintended consequences due to bad fortune or circumstances beyond control. The term has a somewhat whimsical connotation, often emphasizing the irony of being caught in a predicament through no fault of one's own.

Synonyms

miserably, unfortunately, unluckily

Examples of usage

  • She haplessly tripped over the dog while rushing to answer the phone.
  • He haplessly forgot his wallet at home and could not pay for lunch.
  • The haplessly misplaced keys led to a frantic search before the meeting.
  • They haplessly missed their flight due to road construction.

Etymology

The word 'haplessly' is derived from the root 'hap,' which comes from Middle English 'hap,' meaning 'luck' or 'chance.' The term 'hap' itself has Old Norse origins, originating from the word 'happ,' which also denoted chance or occurrence. The suffix '-lessly' is used to denote a lack of, thus combining these elements creates a term that suggests a state of being devoid of good fortune or luck. 'Haplessly' has been used in English since at least the 18th century, capturing a sense of irony in situations where individuals find themselves in unfortunate circumstances without fault of their own. This word reflects the unpredictability of life and the human experience, highlighting how one's endeavors can be thwarted by random chance.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,438, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.