a supposed material or psychical agent or mode of activity other than a force, law, or purpose; fortune; fate; -- in this sense often personified.-the operation or activity of such agent.-the supposed effect of such an agent; something that befalls, as the result of unknown or unconsidered forces; the issue of uncertain conditions; an event not calculated upon; an unexpected occurrence; a happening; accident; fortuity; casualty.-a possibility; a likelihood; an opportunity; -- with reference to a doubtful result; as, a chance to escape; a chance for life; the chances are all against him.-probability.-to happen, come, or arrive, without design or expectation.-to take the chances of; to venture upon; -- usually with it as object.-to befall; to happen to.-happening by chance; casual.-by chance; perchance.