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 of likelihood

• 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

Trump’s move casts doubt on the likelihood of the White House imposing sanctions on Russia this month, given that a bipartisan law passed by Congress directs the administration to target the top importers of Russian oil and gas. — Michelle L. Price, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2026

As life in Gaza does not meaningfully improve and as deadly Israeli attacks continue, the likelihood of an explosion grows. — Khaled Elgindy, Foreign Affairs, 8 Oct. 2026

Right from the outset, the winners recognize their overwhelming advantage and their equally overwhelming likelihood to win. — James Coffin, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026

Fed funds futures traders anticipate a more than 82% likelihood that the central bank will next increase borrowing costs at its December meeting, according to CME's FedWatch tool. — Alex Harring, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2026

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