likelihood

noun

like·​li·​hood ˈlī-klē-ˌhu̇d 

: the chance that something will happen : probability

There's very little likelihood of that happening. [=that is very unlikely to happen]

changes that in all likelihood will be made soon [=changes that are very likely to be made soon]

… a strong likelihood that he is correct …

—T. D. Anderson

The likelihood of instability might increase because of the economic crisis.

—Fareed Zakaria

… could reduce the likelihood of a fire in their convenience store by banning smoking in their building …

—Harriet E. Jones et al.

Synonyms

• liability
• probability

Examples of likelihood in a Sentence

There is a strong likelihood that he will be reelected.

the weatherman on TV said that the likelihood of rain today was fairly high

Recent Examples on the Web

As the storm moves away, this likelihood decreases. —Kansas City Star Weather Bot, Kansas City Star, 2 Apr. 2025

Tarrant County faces a moderate to high likelihood of a measles outbreak. —Matt Leclercq, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 Apr. 2025

Overall, the likelihood of increasing access challenges for people seeking services or support as well as fewer protections and longer wait times seems high. —Simon F. Haeder, The Conversation, 31 Mar. 2025

However, certain behaviors, such as approaching within 3 meters, blocking a manta’s path, or diving from the front, significantly increased the likelihood of stress responses, particularly among juvenile manta rays. —Emese MacZko, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see likely entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing likelihood

• maximum likelihood

Rhymes for likelihood

• misunderstood
• unlikelihood
• adulthood
• babyhood
• brotherhood
• cottonwood
• fatherhood
• firewood
• fuelwood
• hardihood
• ironwood
• leatherwood

Kids Definition

likelihood

noun

like·​li·​hood ˈlī-klē-ˌhu̇d 

: probability sense 1