probable

1 of 2

adjective

prob·​a·​ble ˈprä-bə-bəl 

ˈprä(b)-bəl

1

: supported by evidence strong enough to establish presumption but not proof

a probable hypothesis

2

: establishing a probability

probable evidence

3

: likely to be or become true or real

probable outcome

probable

2 of 2

noun

: one that is probable

Synonyms of probable

Adjective

• plausible
• credible

Examples of probable in a Sentence

Adjective

It is probable that life exists outside of our planet.

the counselor could find no probable reason for the girl's bizarre actions

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Forward Simone Fontecchio is listed as probable with ankle soreness. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 11 Apr. 2026

But next week might be greener, because rain on the plain is probable Saturday and Sunday. —Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2026

Noun

Pitching probables Saturday: Rockies RHP Michael Lorenzen (7-11, 4.64 ERA with Royals in 2025) at Marlins RHP Eury Pérez (7-6, 4.25 in 2025), 2:10 p.m. Sunday: Rockies LHP Jose Quintana (11-7, 3.96 with Brewers in 2026) at Marlins RHP Max Meyer (3-5, 4.73 in 2026) , 11:40 a.m. TV: Rockies. —Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 28 Mar. 2026

Nysos, the impressive winner of the San Diego Handicap at Del Mar, heads the list of four probables for the Pacific Classic. —Bill Center, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English, from Latin probabilis commendable, probable, from probare to test, approve, prove — more at prove

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1638, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing probable

• probable cause

Rhymes for probable

• improbable

Kids Definition

probable

adjective

prob·​a·​ble

ˈpräb-ə-bəl

: reasonably sure but not certain of happening or being true : likely