eventuality

noun

even·​tu·​al·​i·​ty i-ˌven-chə-ˈwa-lə-tē How to pronounce eventuality (audio)
plural eventualities
: a possible event or outcome : possibility

Examples of eventuality in a Sentence

He planned carefully and was ready for any eventuality. a cure for that form of cancer seems like a certain eventuality—it's just a matter of time
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yet the eventuality for which the Kremlin does not appear to have a plan is that Russia will be unable to translate its massive advantage in manpower and materiel into a decisive breakthrough—as has been the case since the war began. Alexander Gabuev, Foreign Affairs, 26 Aug. 2025 That eventuality, seemingly far-fetched not long ago, is eerily plausible today. Hussein Agha, New Yorker, 22 Aug. 2025 TikTok has been planning for this eventuality. Emily Baker-White, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2025 In a hearing on Friday, no party seemed to contest the eventuality of a recall vote, but those involved in the case had different ideas of exactly when the election should take place. Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 2 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for eventuality

Word History

First Known Use

1650, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of eventuality was in 1650

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Eventuality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eventuality. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

eventuality

noun
even·​tu·​al·​i·​ty i-ˌven-chə-ˈwal-ət-ē How to pronounce eventuality (audio)
plural eventualities
: something that might happen : possibility

More from Merriam-Webster on eventuality

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!