Happy

Happy is an adjective used to describe a state of pleasure, contentment, or well-being, or a fortunate circumstance. The noun form happiness refers to the overall state of well-being and contentment. Etymology traces to Middle English hap, from Old Norse happ meaning chance or luck, with happiness arising from favorable outcomes.

In psychology, happiness is treated as subjective well-being, comprising cognitive judgments of life satisfaction and affective experiences of positive and negative emotions. Researchers distinguish hedonic happiness (pleasure and avoidance of pain) from eudaimonic happiness (meaning, purpose, and self-realization). The PERMA model identifies Positive emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment as core elements.

Determinants of happiness include genetic factors that influence baseline mood, life circumstances such as health and income, and deliberate practices. Activities like maintaining social connections, regular physical activity, sufficient sleep, gratitude, and mindfulness can enhance happiness. The concept of a happiness set point suggests that individuals vary in baseline levels, but there is room for change through behavior and environment.

Cultural contexts shape how happiness is valued and expressed and may affect measurement. Cross-cultural studies reveal both universal aspects of well-being and culturally specific norms. Measurement relies on self-report scales, which can be influenced by mood, question framing, and adaptation to local contexts.

Impact and applications: well-being is linked to health, productivity, and social functioning. Societal discussions and policies in some regions aim to improve happiness through health, education, and social equity.