outcome

noun

out·​come ˈau̇t-ˌkəm 

: something that follows as a result or consequence

a surprising outcome

patient outcomes of bypass surgery

We are still awaiting the final outcome of the trial.

Synonyms

• aftereffect
• aftermath
• backwash
• child
• conclusion
• consequence
• corollary
• development
• effect
• fate
• fruit
• issue
• outgrowth
• precipitate
• product
• result
• resultant
• sequel
• sequence
• upshot

Examples of outcome in a Sentence

the outcome of the election

We are still awaiting the final outcome of the trial.

There are two possible outcomes.

Recent Examples on the Web

The articles require a two-thirds majority vote, an outcome considered highly unlikely given the slim Republican majority and the need for significant Democratic support. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 22 Mar. 2025

While different courts may reach different outcomes, the broader legal questions can percolate before the Supreme Court may ultimately step in with a resolution. —Melissa Quinn, CBS News, 22 Mar. 2025

Putin spoke of it almost as a law of nature, never mentioning that the Kremlin enforced such outcomes. —Melik Kaylan, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025

In any campaign, a conventional approach typically yields a conventional outcome. —Bradley Tusk, New York Daily News, 21 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for outcome

• become
• checksum
• humdrum
• income
• succumb
• therefrom
• wherefrom
• abomasum
• bum
• chum
• come
• crum

Kids Definition

outcome

noun

out·​come ˈau̇t-ˌkəm 

: result entry 2 sense 1