likelihood

or like·li·ness

[ lahyk-lee-hood ]

noun

1. the state of being likely or probable; probability.
2. a probability or chance of something:

   There is a strong likelihood of his being elected.

3. Archaic. indication of a favorable end; promise.

likelihood

/ ˈlaɪklɪˌnɪs; ˈlaɪklɪˌhʊd /

noun

1. the condition of being likely or probable; probability
2. something that is probable
3. 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 Words From

• super·likeli·hood noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of likelihood¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, likelihood is from the Middle English word liklihood. See likely, -hood

Example Sentences

That reduces the likelihood of conflict, explains Ms Sharman.

From BBC

But Conservative peer Brady said planned "extreme redistribution" would "replace our brilliant but brutal meritocracy with the likelihood of a closed shop where survival not aspiration becomes a ceiling".

From BBC

A UN-backed report recently warned that there was an imminent likelihood of famine in northern Gaza, where hardly any aid has entered in the past month.

From BBC

A UN-backed report recently warned that there was an imminent likelihood of famine in northern Gaza, where hardly any aid has entered in the past month.

From BBC

Major League Baseball has objected, saying in a court filing last week that an alleged failure to disclose pertinent data leaves MLB concerned about what it called the “substantial likelihood that the debtors will find themselves once again in financial distress and/or bankruptcy court in the near future.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• possibility
• probability
• prospect
• tendency
• trend