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.
Researchers at Amherst College found that poor weather on a campus visit actually reduces a student’s likelihood of applying—and the impact is notable, according to a study published by the National Bureau of Economic Research.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 2026
The research followed 656 adults between the ages of 55 and 75 who were overweight or obese and had metabolic syndrome -- a set of risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.
From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 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 likelihood of United Flight 001 arriving on time obviously shifted—with the weather, mechanical issues, pilot quality, and so on.
From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis
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.
