Bonanza
/bəˈnæn.zə/noun
A situation or event that creates a sudden increase in wealth or good fortune.
Did you know?The term 'Bonanza' originally referred to a rich lode of ore, evoking images of striking it rich in treacherous conditions—like a gold rush!
Etymological Timeline
Spanish 16th Century
Spanish
bonanza
“calm sea; fair weather (used in shipping contexts)”
Spanish 17th Century
Spanish
bonanza
“a prosperous situation or good fortune, especially in business or mining.”
Early 19th Century
English
bonanza
“a term adopted in English to describe a sudden windfall or a rich source of wealth.”
Modern English
English
bonanza
“now commonly refers to any situation that results in a large fortune or opportunity.”
Explore more surprising origins