prediction

noun

pre·​dic·​tion pri-ˈdik-shən How to pronounce prediction (audio)
Synonyms of predictionnext
1
: an act of predicting
2
: something that is predicted : forecast

Examples of prediction in a Sentence

Journalists have begun making predictions about the winner of the coming election. Despite predictions that the store would fail, it has done very well. The figures and statistics are used for the prediction of future economic trends.
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.
Those are, indeed, pat, credible theories and predictions. Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 8 Jan. 2026 Adding weight to Meloni’s prediction of upcoming turbulence is the fact that 43 members of Congress have already announced plans to leave. Juan Williams, Washington Post, 7 Jan. 2026 The full list of predictions are below. Clayton Davis, Variety, 7 Jan. 2026 And the 2026 prediction is that skirted seating, curvy silhouettes, and fabric-heavy spaces (think innovative applications, not just an 80s-style explosion of textiles everywhere) are what's en vogue. Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 6 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prediction

Word History

First Known Use

1561, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of prediction was in 1561

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Prediction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prediction. Accessed 8 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

prediction

noun
pre·​dic·​tion pri-ˈdik-shən How to pronounce prediction (audio)
1
: an act of predicting
2
: something predicted : forecast
a prediction that there would be an earthquake
predictive
-ˈdik-tiv
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on prediction

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!