outcome

American  

[out-kuhm] / ˈaʊtˌkʌm /

noun

1. a final product or end result; consequence; issue.

2. a conclusion reached through a process of logical thinking.

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outcome British  

/ ˈaʊtˌkʌm /

noun

1. something that follows from an action, dispute, situation, etc; result; consequence

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Related Words

See end ¹.

Etymology

Origin of outcome

First recorded in 1175–1225, outcome is from the Middle English word utcume. See out-, come

Example Sentences

What they do need are mechanisms for collective decision-making for maximum efficacy — identifying people the movement trusts “to sit at the table” and deliver a better outcome.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

“The more realistic outcome is that alternatives become a modest ‘sleeve’ inside professionally managed options—target-date funds, multi-asset portfolios, or white-label funds in large plans.”

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

But worse yet, they said, the outcome “would cast a shadow over the citizenship of millions upon millions of Americans, going back generations.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

When the government sued under antitrust law, the judge’s 1953 ruling was a mixed outcome.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

This awareness of a “connection to the world” has perhaps been the most surprising outcome of the first discovery and excavation of a slave-carrying vessel.

From "Shipwrecked!" by Martin W. Sandler

Related Words

• conclusion
• event
• fallout
• issue
• reaction
• result