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.
With claims including misuse of his image and unjust enrichment, because Meta makes money from ads on its platform no matter their goal or outcome, Forrest's lawsuit could be one of the most significant.
From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026
A zero-percent target would leave little room for error, as even a minor shock could result in deflation, or falling prices, arguably as bad an outcome, or worse, than inflation.
From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026
If you contributed to the original purchase and have been a bona fide co-owner since the acquisition, that history could affect the outcome.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026
A high inflation outcome could lead to a new surge in market rates, a stronger dollar and continued pressure on global stock markets, the macro strategist said.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026
“You’re trying to protect me. I do appreciate that, Jakob. I will accept whatever the outcome is once we know the truth. Tell me about the code.”
From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
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.
