episode

noun

ˈe-pə-ˌsōd How to pronounce episode (audio)
Definition of episodenext
as in event
something that happens I'm trying to forget the whole embarrassing episode

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word episode distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of episode are circumstance, event, incident, and occurrence. While all these words mean "something that happens or takes place," episode stresses the distinctiveness or apartness of an incident.

a brief romantic episode in a life devoted to work

When might circumstance be a better fit than episode?

The words circumstance and episode can be used in similar contexts, but circumstance implies a specific detail attending an action or event as part of its setting or background.

couldn't recall the exact circumstances

When can event be used instead of episode?

The meanings of event and episode largely overlap; however, event usually implies an occurrence of some importance and frequently one having antecedent cause.

the events following the assassination

When could incident be used to replace episode?

The words incident and episode are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, incident suggests an occurrence of brief duration or secondary importance.

a minor wartime incident

Where would occurrence be a reasonable alternative to episode?

While in some cases nearly identical to episode, occurrence may apply to a happening without intent, volition, or plan.

an encounter that was a chance occurrence

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 episode The new Prime Video series dedicates an episode to James Van Der Beek. — Samantha Highfill, Entertainment Weekly, 1 July 2026 In the meantime, though, Janet remains persona non grata with her travel group, which leads to the fight that ended last week’s episode and carries into this one. — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 2 July 2026 The Coleman episode also demonstrated that, depending on the situation, companies may be able to engage audiences in ways that do not come across as defensive. — Edward Segal, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Speaking on a new episode of Taboo's Comics & Kicks, Sweetin, 44, explained that she was disappointed when the twins — who appeared in all eight seasons of Full House — passed on the Netflix reboot of the hit '90s show. — Virginia Chamlee, PEOPLE, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for episode
Recent Examples of Synonyms for episode
  1. event
  2. incident
  3. thing
  4. circumstance
Noun
  • Greenwood is leading a series of high-profile events to celebrate America's 250th anniversary.
    — Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026
  • Fans from around the world attended the event, with many saying this World Cup has felt different.
    — Anna McAllister, CBS News, 2 July 2026
Definition of event
Noun
  • The incident, which authorities are investigating, occurred 30 nautical miles (around 55 kilometers) southwest of Yemen’s Red Sea port of Al Hudaydah, UKMTO said.
    — Billy Stockwell, CNN Money, 5 July 2026
  • The incident occurred following Angel City FC's 2-0 win over the Orlando Pride on Friday evening, July 3, according to an Angel City FC spokesperson and multiple videos of the incident shared on social media by event attendees.
    — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 5 July 2026
Definition of incident
Noun
  • This was most obvious during Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour, when brands capitalized on all things Taylor — friendship bracelets, themed drinks and even concert outfits.
    — Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026
  • Eliminating that gap is one of the hardest things an organization can do.
    — Tracy Lawrence, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Definition of thing
Noun
  • The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
    — Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 7 July 2026
  • Hughes did not respond to a message seeking more information about the circumstances of the crash.
    — Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 6 July 2026
Definition of circumstance

Browse Nearby Words

episcopates
episode
episodes
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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More from Merriam-Webster on episode

Nglish: Translation of episode for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about episode

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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