befall

verb

bi-ˈfȯl How to pronounce befall (audio)
Definition of befallnext
as in to happen
to take place whatever befalls, we'll make the best of it and carry on

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of befall Castillo basically needs another scandal to befall Cervantes at this point. — Sal Rodriguez, Oc Register, 19 June 2026 In baseball, curses are no joking matter, and the Curse of the FTD Burger might now have befallen the team. — Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026 Christian Morris, an attorney for the family, said the family never imagined harm could befall their child while using Roblox. — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 14 June 2026 Elsewhere, an unspeakable tragedy that befalls a fellow factory worker further establishes the plight of young girls across China’s recent history. — Tomris Laffly, Variety, 25 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for befall
Recent Examples of Synonyms for befall
  1. happen
  2. occur
Verb
  • That was a normal action in football that happened by accident.
    — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
  • This is the business end, and this is the stage where, in my opinion, the big players step forward and the big players carry the pressure and make things happen.
    — Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026
Definition of happen
Verb
  • Most of the strikes occur in the summer, killing 20 people each year, according to the NWS.
    — STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 July 2026
  • The shootings, which also injured four people, occurred at two Fourth of July block parties about two miles apart, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
    — Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026
Definition of occur

Browse Nearby Words

beetling
befall
befallen
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Cite this Entry

“Befall.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/befall. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on befall

Nglish: Translation of befall for Spanish Speakers

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