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

But it was that very unlikelihood that intensified scrutiny about how the song got its votes.

From The Daily Beast

He recognizes the immense popularity the party enjoys among Shiites, and the unlikelihood that this will change any time soon.

From The Daily Beast

This brings us to the difficult point of the degree or kind of unlikelihood one may risk in such a story.

From Project Gutenberg

And if the young man's manner had not suggested the unlikelihood of his return, a hint to that effect was conveyed by his clothes.

From Project Gutenberg

But it is none the less worth while to consider how the unlikelihood can be made to approach most nearly to a certainty.

From Project Gutenberg

It was in vain that they pointed out that there had been no pursuit thus far, and the unlikelihood of there being one.

From Project Gutenberg

Nicky was crowning his unlikelihood by refraining from the slightest allusion to the event.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• also-ran
• long shot
• sleeper
• underdog