unlikelihood

[ uhn-lahyk-lee-hood ]

noun

1. the state of being unlikely; improbability.

Word History and Origins

Origin of unlikelihood¹

First recorded in 1475–85; unlikely + -hood

Example Sentences

The vote, which was previously held back due to the bill’s unlikelihood of passing, was seen as an opportunity for Democrats to highlight the GOP’s unwillingness to support the plan to uplift families.

From Salon

As Legum documented, Sherman initially regurgitated Johnson’s description of the IRS cut as an “offset” in a tweet and treated the unlikelihood of its passage as a product of Democratic Party opposition.

From Los Angeles Times

The unlikelihood of him being available to play in the NHL until 2026 could represent a red flag for some teams.

From Washington Times

Their initial wariness at this unlikelihood soon turns to joy when they discover the town is inhabited by loved ones who'd died on Earth.

From Salon

Folbigg’s 2003 conviction stemmed from circumstantial evidence, such as ambiguous writings in her diary and the apparent unlikelihood of four children in one family dying naturally.

From Science Magazine

Related Words

• also-ran
• long shot
• sleeper
• underdog