Word of the Day - August 26, 2025

 


Kismet      ˈkizˌmet



Noun     

  • Destiny; fate.


Example Sentences

“Many romance movies and books rely on kismet as a plot device.”

“It seemed to be kismet when the siblings ran into each other at a mostly empty matinee.”

“Do you believe in kismet when it comes to finding a soul mate?”


Word Origin

Turkish, early 19th century


Why this word?


While the idea of destiny is often represented as an unseen force bringing people together, the etymological root of this word is one of division. “Kismet” stems from the Turkish “qismet” from the Arabic “qisma,” meaning “division, portion, lot.” It traces to “qasama,” which means “to divide.”

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