noun. In law, a chance, an accident, or an event: used frequently with other words to express some technical meaning.

noun. In commercial law, that which is contemplaced by the parties to a contract, or that which is stipulated for or brought within the terms of the contract.

noun. An event; an occurrence; an occasion; a combination of circumstances; a case; an act of God. See the Note under accident.

noun. an event or combination of events which is a cause war, or may be alleged as a justification of war.

noun. an accident against which due prudence could not have provided. See Act of God, under Act.

noun. a case not provided for by the statute.