1
: having or viewed as having a better than even chance to win
the odds-on favorite
2
: not involving much risk : pretty sure
an odds-on bet

Examples of odds-on in a Sentence

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.
The Rams already were the odds-on Super Bowl favorite before bringing back Donald, so upon hearing that he was scratched, the 49ers surely won’t be doing any victory laps in the ensuing 52 hours before kickoff. Cam Inman, Mercury News, 8 Sep. 2026 Prediction Week 1 starter — Smack RIGHT GUARD Anthony Belton, a second round draft pick in 2025, started the final six games at this spot last season and was the odds-on favorite here when camp began. Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026 The Hammers are 7/4 favourites to win the Championship and are odds-on for promotion. Dean Jones, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026 Ronaldo, the odds-on favorite to lead that World Cup in goals, did not score. Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for odds-on

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of odds-on was in 1888

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Cite this Entry

“Odds-on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/odds-on. Accessed 14 Sep. 2026.

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