worst-case

[wurst-keys]

adjective

1. of the worst possibility; being the worst result that could be expected under the circumstances.

   a worst-case scenario.

worst case

noun

1. 1. a situation in which the most unfavourable conditions prevail

   2. ( as modifier )

      a worst-case projection of a massive accident

Word History and Origins

Origin of worst case¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Related Words

• absolute 
• all-out 
• sheer 
• ultimate 
• unconditional