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

AEP or "Annual Exceedance Probability" is used to express the likelihood of a flood occurring in a given area each year.

From Science Daily

Earlier this month, a UN-backed assessment said there was a strong likelihood that famine was imminent in areas of northern Gaza.

From BBC

This allows the caterers to reduce the amount of food they prepare and serve, so that there’s less likelihood of leftovers.

From Salon

A UN-backed assessment warned earlier this month that there was “strong likelihood that famine is imminent in areas within the northern Gaza Strip”.

From BBC

"This increases the likelihood of incorrect connections, as we were able to show in computer simulations," explains Prieto-Garcia.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• possibility
• probability
• prospect
• tendency
• trend