prediction
Americannoun
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an act of predicting.
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an instance of this; prophecy.
- Synonyms:
- projection, divination, prognostication, augury, forecast
noun
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the act of predicting
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something predicted; a forecast, prophecy, etc
Usage
What does prediction mean? A prediction is a statement about what someone thinks will happen in the future. People make predictions all the time. Some are very serious and are based on scientific calculations, but many are just guesses. Example: Here’s a prediction: in 20 years, we’ll all drive less and eat a lot less meat.
Etymology
Origin of prediction
First recorded in 1555–65; from Latin praedictiōn-, stem of praedictiō “prophecy”; equivalent to predict + -ion
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.
Bettors on prediction market platform Polymarket have wagered a 48% chance of traffic through the route going back to normal by the end of April, down from 65% one month ago.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026
Let’s see if they put prediction markets to the Clarence Barron test: Is it “the application of money to practical ends,” or mere gambling?
From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026
Even stats specialists Opta think it's a done deal, with their prediction table giving Coventry a 100% chance of promotion.
From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026
Think of it as a stress test rather than a prediction.
From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026
And she might receive some satisfaction that her prediction had proved correct.
From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison
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.
