likelihood
Americannoun
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the state of being likely or probable; probability.
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a probability or chance of something.
There is a strong likelihood of his being elected.
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Archaic. indication of a favorable end; promise.
noun
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the condition of being likely or probable; probability
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something that is probable
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statistics the probability of a given sample being randomly drawn regarded as a function of the parameters of the population. The likelihood ratio is the ratio of this to the maximized likelihood See also maximum likelihood
Other Word Forms
- superlikelihood noun
Etymology
Origin of likelihood
First recorded in 1350–1400, likelihood is from the Middle English word liklihood. See likely, -hood
Explanation
The likelihood of something means the odds that it will happen, or how likely a particular outcome is. Your likelihood of winning the lottery is pretty slim. If you figured out the likelihood of winning the lottery before you bought a scratch ticket, you might end up spending your money on something else. Likelihood indicates probability or chance. The likelihood that you'll convince your stubborn dog to get in your car completely depends on how many dog treats you've got in your pocket.
Vocabulary lists containing likelihood
Statistics and Probability - Middle School
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Because of Mr. Terupt
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Jacob Have I Loved
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
However, in its adverse scenario, inflation would average 3.5% this year, increasing the likelihood of a rise in interest rates.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026
The surge in jet-fuel costs has raised the likelihood of consolidation in the airline sector, according to industry analysts.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026
You can also talk about how certain bets, like a parlay that combines more than one wager, may sound more lucrative but also increases the likelihood of losing.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026
In Masturzo’s view, markets may be over-appreciating the fact that the cease-fire is holding and negotiations are ongoing, reducing the likelihood of renewed hostilities.
From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026
The most obvious source of potential conflict was the likelihood that Rob might decide to turn us around before the summit.
From "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
