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 Tune in to the next episode to see if the winner will extend the streak or go home. —Usa Today Staff, USA Today, 9 Feb. 2026 In addition to Mercurio, executive producers of the eight-episode series include Jimmy Mulville for Hat Trick Mercurio and Wendy Mericle. —Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 9 Feb. 2026 The series will air its final episodes in the fall. —Michael Schneider, Variety, 9 Feb. 2026 While the players are all too young to know much about this team’s history, the Bulls had a famous episode in the 1985-86 season when they were accused of trying to tank it for the draft. —Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 9 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for episode
Recent Examples of Synonyms for episode
  1. event
  2. incident
  3. thing
  4. circumstance
Noun
  • The event will, in particular, monitor several metrics, including motion control, dynamic balance, and impact resistance.
    — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Both mishaps were unfortunate events as medals have been hard to come by through the early days of the Winter Olympics.
    — Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 10 Feb. 2026
Definition of event
Noun
  • There have been no such incidents this year, but there has been plenty of on-court drama that only international team tennis — with home and away ties, and a slot just after a Grand Slam that sees many nations’ top stars resting — can provide.
    — James Hansen, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026
  • The courts have granted exceptions to search without a search warrant and each specific incident should be reviewed based on its facts.
    — Matthew Cupelli, Cincinnati Enquirer, 9 Feb. 2026
Definition of incident
Noun
  • For this Alaskan, the start of summer means one thing—time to plan a winter visit.
    — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Feb. 2026
  • Consider introducing yourself to a neighbor, because your optimism is ideally positioned to start things off on the right foot.
    — Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 11 Feb. 2026
Definition of thing
Noun
  • The allegations raised fresh questions about the circumstances of Navalny's 2024 death and about the origin of a highly unusual toxin.
    — Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 15 Feb. 2026
  • The plane crashed into mountainous terrain in unknown circumstances, according to preliminary information, the National Transportation Safety Board said.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 14 Feb. 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 15 Feb. 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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