scenario

[ si-nair-ee-oh, -nahr- ]

noun

, plural sce·nar·i·os.

1. an outline of the plot of a dramatic work, giving particulars as to the scenes, characters, situations, etc.
2. the outline or the manuscript of a motion picture or television program, giving the action in the order in which it takes place, the description of scenes and characters, etc.
3. an imagined or projected sequence of events, especially any of several detailed plans or possibilities:

   One scenario calls for doubling profits by increasing our advertising, the other by reducing costs.

   Synonyms: sketch, concept, plan, scheme

scenario

/ sɪˈnɑːrɪˌəʊ; sɪˈnɑː-; ˈsiːnərɪst /

noun

1. a summary of the plot of a play, etc, including information about its characters, scenes, etc
2. a predicted sequence of events

   let's try another scenario, involving the demise of democracy

Derived Forms

• scenarist, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of scenario¹

First recorded in 1875–80; from Italian, from Latin scaenārium, scēnārium, noun use of scaenārius, scēnārius “belonging to the stage, theatrical,” from scaen(a), scēn(a) “background, stage, theater” ( scene ) + -ārius -ary

Word History and Origins

Origin of scenario¹

C19: via Italian from Latin scēnārium, from scēna; see scene

Example Sentences

We got the answer with Wednesday’s announcement of his intent to nominate Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general: worse even than the worst-case scenario we had imagined.

From Los Angeles Times

The air traffic control system had previously processed more than 15 million flight plans without the scenario being seen.

From BBC

Within minutes, this worst-case scenario became a reality in Las Posas Estates.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s a fun, relaxed hang where you might meet the love of your life. But worst-case scenario, you are definitely going to laugh.”

From Los Angeles Times

To reiterate: If we as a people are to somehow avoid the absolute worst-case scenario, you are going to be tested — and it will not be easy.

From Salon

Related Words

• plot
• scheme