"accident" Definition

Definitions for the word "accident" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
Literally, a befalling; an event that takes place without one's foresight or expectation; an undesigned, sudden, and unexpected event; chance; contingency; often, an undesigned and unforeseen occurrence of an afflictive or unfortunate character; a casualty; a mishap; as, to die by an accident.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
A property attached to a word, but not essential to it, as gender, number, case.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
A point or mark which may be retained or omitted in a coat of arms.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
A property or quality of a thing which is not essential to it, as whiteness in paper; an attribute.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
A quality or attribute in distinction from the substance, as sweetness, softness.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. n.
Any accidental property, fact, or relation; an accidental or nonessential; as, beauty is an accident.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. n.
Unusual appearance or effect.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. n.
1 unfortunate esp. Harmful event, caused unintentionally. 2 event that is unexpected or without apparent cause. by accident unintentionally. [latin cado fall]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "accident" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "accident" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
The definitions for words, phrases and slang (such as "accident") in this dictionary are sourced from multiple sources - including sources historical in nature. The sources may contain outdated, inaccurate or even offensive information when viewed from a modern context. It is important to consider the date the dictionary was published and view such content from a historical perspective and consider that the meanings, interpretations and usage of words may have evolved over time. Users should cross-reference this information with contemporary sources for a more complete understanding.

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