Bechances

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. An occurrence that is contingent on luck or fortune
2. a chance event that may happen without certainty
3. a possibility of something happening by mere coincidence

Etymology: The term "bechances" is a fascinating relic from Middle English, derived from the verb "bechance," which itself can be traced back to the Old English "beceorfan," meaning "to come to pass" or "to happen." The prefix "be-" in this instance adds a sense of completeness or occurrence to the root. By the late 14th century, it had evolved in usage to convey the idea of something occurring by chance or fortune, often encompassing a sense of fate or serendipity. One of the most notable early uses of "bechances" appears in Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," specifically in "The Miller's Tale." This work, written around the 1380s, showcases the term within the context of chance events, highlighting its association with fortune and happenstance. Chaucer's playful and vivid narrative style helped to popularize the term, embedding it deeper into the fabric of English literature. Throughout its history, the word has retained its connection to chance, but its usage has waned significantly in modern English. It evokes an era when fate was often personified, and the unpredictable nature of life was a central theme in storytelling. The decline of "bechances" reflects broader shifts in the English language, where simpler, more direct expressions have taken precedence over more ornate and archaic forms. While "bechance" and its variants may not be commonly heard today, the notion of events happening by chance remains an integral part of contemporary vocabulary. Words like "chance" and "happenstance" carry forward the legacy of this older term, linking modern speakers back to a time when the whimsical forces of fate were more openly acknowledged in everyday language.