Happy accident is a phrase that refers to a fortuitous or happy coincidence that leads to a positive outcome. The term is often used to describe a situation in which something unexpected happens, and it turns out to be a good thing. Synonyms for this phrase include serendipity, stroke of luck, fortunate happenstance, lucky break, blessing in disguise, and unexpected joy. Other terms might include a fluke, stroke of good fortune, or a chance success. Regardless of which term is used, the underlying meaning is the same: that something unexpected and fortunate happened, and it had a positive impact on the situation at hand.