outcome
Americannoun
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a final product or end result; consequence; issue.
-
a conclusion reached through a process of logical thinking.
noun
Synonym Usage
See end 1.
Etymology
Origin of outcome
First recorded in 1175–1225, outcome is from the Middle English word utcume. See out-, come
Explanation
The result of something, or the consequence of it, is the outcome. If your oldest child announces that your youngest child has climbed onto the roof with a handmade set of wings, you should probably not expect a good outcome. Better run! The noun outcome refers to the result of a process, but recently, when joined with the word "based", it has become jargon within a variety of industries and you'll see uses like outcome-based medicine and outcome-based budgeting. Outcome-based education, for example, rewards schools and teachers whose students meet certain goals on standardized tests, although critics argue this robs teachers and students of creativity.
Vocabulary lists containing outcome
List 10
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100 SAT words Beginning with "O"
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Chapter 18: The Reconstruction Era
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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.
Last week, defence trade association ADS said British businesses were "really struggling" as they await the outcome of the government's defence investment plan.
From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026
Jeffrey Kessler, one of Sorsby’s attorneys, called the outcome “a just result.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026
As a result, the prospectus says, “Mr. Musk will be able to control the outcome of matters requiring shareholder approval,” including the selection of the board of directors.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026
Mice showed far less lose-shift behavior, making them less likely to adjust their decisions after an unexpected outcome.
From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026
While they were waiting for the results, Bisguier asked Bobby why he’d offered the draw to Shipman when he had a slight advantage and the outcome wasn’t certain.
From "Endgame" by Frank Brady
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.
