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.
It was a stunning outcome at Madison Square Garden, despite the Knicks making a habit of comeback wins.
From Barron's • Jun. 11, 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
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
Commissioner Brett Yormark hastily scheduled a meeting with the league’s athletic directors, presidents and chancellors later this week to discuss the outcome.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026
The girls made campaigning more relaxing, if only because they weren't much invested in the outcome.
From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama
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.
