: involving, projecting, or providing for the worst possible circumstances or outcome of a given situation
a worst-case scenario

Examples of worst-case in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web City’s expulsion from the league would be a worst-case, and perhaps unrealistically severe, penalty. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 17 Sep. 2024 Both countries’ zero-sum rhetoric and preparations for conflict are furthering a gradual descent into hostility and estrangement, reinforcing fears of a worst-case scenario and undermining the credibility of tactical assurances. Jessica Chen Weiss, Foreign Affairs, 16 Sep. 2024 The issue is that in the time between noticing a spot and seeing my doctor, my mind conjures up extreme worst-case scenarios. Michelle Rostamian, Allure, 10 Sep. 2024 The dwelling insurance portion of a homeowners policy covers your house if it’s damaged or destroyed in a worst-case scenario (such as a fire). Penny Gusner, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for worst-case 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'worst-case.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of worst-case was in 1964

Dictionary Entries Near worst-case

Cite this Entry

“Worst-case.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/worst-case. Accessed 2 Oct. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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