If something often happens, it happens many times or much of the time. They often spent Christmas together. That doesn't happen very often.

Understanding the Context

The meaning of OFTEN is many times : frequently. How to use often in a sentence. Many times; frequently. [Middle English, alteration (probably influenced by selden, seldom) of oft, from Old English; see upo in Indo-European roots.] Usage Note: The pronunciation of often with a (t) is a classic example of what is known as a spelling pronunciation.

Key Insights

Often means "frequently," like if you see your friends every day, you see each other often. The adverb often can mean "in great quantities," like you often stop by the donut shop, you might be shocked to realize you've been there hundreds of times in the last few years.