probable

1 of 2

adjective

prob·​a·​ble ˈprä-bə-bəl 

ˈprä(b)-bəl

1

: supported by evidence strong enough to establish presumption but not proof

a probable hypothesis

2

: establishing a probability

probable evidence

3

: likely to be or become true or real

probable outcome

probable

2 of 2

noun

: one that is probable

Synonyms

Adjective

• believable
• credible
• creditable
• likely
• plausible
• presumptive

Examples of probable in a Sentence

Adjective

It is probable that life exists outside of our planet.

the counselor could find no probable reason for the girl's bizarre actions

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The review is the largest analysis of existing animal and human studies and is the first to present such a probable link. —Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 11 June 2024

This online database houses examples of elephant behaviors and their probable meanings. —Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 7 June 2024

Noun

Pitching probables Tuesday: Guardians RHP Triston McKenzie (2-3, 3.44) at Rockies RHP Ryan Feltner (1-4, 5.07), 6:40 p.m. Wednesday: Guardians LHP Logan Allen (6-2, 4.89) at Rockies LHP Ty Blach (1-2, 4.55), 6:40 p.m. — Patrick Saunders, The Denver Post Want more Rockies news? —Patrick Saunders, The Denver Post, 27 May 2024

Several other contenders have joined the list of probables for the $2 million Preakness in recent days. —Childs Walker, Baltimore Sun, 8 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English, from Latin probabilis commendable, probable, from probare to test, approve, prove — more at prove

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1638, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing probable

• probable cause

Kids Definition

probable

adjective

prob·​a·​ble

ˈpräb-ə-bəl

: reasonably sure but not certain of happening or being true : likely