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

Fed funds futures trading suggests a roughly 68% likelihood of a rate hike in October, according to the CME FedWatch tool. — Justina Lee,tobias Burns, CNBC, 24 Sep. 2026

According to the Climate Prediction Center, there’s a 33% to 40% likelihood that Boise will see below normal-precipitation in October, November and December. — Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 24 Sep. 2026

In all likelihood, no athlete could take 10 years off and immediately compete in the NFL. — Bobby Burack Outkick, FOXNews.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Find out where and when Some of the states are only within the low-likelihood portion of NOAA's forecast, meaning seeing the northern lights is not guaranteed. — ABC News, 23 Sep. 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