Definition

A sudden and unexpected gain or advantage, often in the form of money or good fortune.

Example

Winning the lottery was a huge windfall for her family.

Conversation

Did you hear about that big lottery win in town?

Yeah, I can't believe someone got such a huge windfall out of nowhere!

I wonder what they will do with all that money.

Probably invest it wisely or maybe take a nice vacation!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Windfall is formed from "wind" (from Old English "wind", meaning air in motion) and "fall" (from Old English "feallan", meaning to fall). The term originally referred to an unexpected gain or fortune that comes as if blown in by the wind, hence a sudden or unexpected benefit.

Memory Tip

Imagine a gust of wind bringing you an unexpected gift — that's what a windfall means, a surprise benefit that comes your way.

Visually Confused Words