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

The likelihood is that Drury will be seeking a scoring RW (or center, in which case Miller could shift to wing) to upgrade at least one position in the top six. —Vincent Z. Mercogliano, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026

Eating large amounts or consuming them on an empty stomach may increase the likelihood of discomfort in sensitive individuals. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2026

The likelihood of lightning increases as a thunderstorm gets closer and reaches its highest point when the storm is directly overhead. —Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 26 Apr. 2026

So now JoAnne faces the likelihood of her new landlord either jacking up the rent or selling the house out from under them, two options that would price them out of the neighborhood for good. —Scott Tobias, Vulture, 26 Apr. 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