reckoning

noun

reck·​on·​ing ˈre-kə-niŋ 

ˈrek-niŋ

1

: the act or an instance of reckoning: such as

a

: account, bill

b

: computation

c

: calculation of a ship's position

2

: a settling of accounts

day of reckoning

3

: a summing up

Synonyms of reckoning

• assessment
• estimate
• appraisal
• estimation
• evaluation
• appraisement
• examination
• calculation

Examples of reckoning in a Sentence

I was more than $10 off in my reckoning.

When the day of reckoning comes, we will have to face some unpleasant truths.

Our football team hardly comes into the reckoning.

Because of his injury, he is out of the reckoning.

The team is still in the reckoning.

Recent Examples on the Web

Crude oil’s momentary test of levels above $100 has forced a reckoning over the prospect of a 1970s-style stagflationary energy shock. —Dallas Morning News, 9 Mar. 2026

The party has faced a reckoning since its disappointing defeat in the 2024 presidential election, triggering internal conflict and constant finger-pointing. —Jake Angelo, Fortune, 9 Mar. 2026

The central role of Nanno – an enigmatic transfer student whose uncanny insight into the moral failings of those around her drives each episode’s reckoning – is taken by 20-year-old Nakajima Arisa in her screen debut. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 8 Mar. 2026

But as the appreciation lagged, as the vote counts dwindled, a moment of reckoning has arrived, or, more to the point, a moment of recognition. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 8 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing reckoning

• by someone's reckoning
• dead reckoning
• hour of reckoning

Rhymes for reckoning

• beckoning

Kids Definition

reckoning

noun

reck·​on·​ing

1

: the act or an instance of calculating

2

: a settling of accounts

day of reckoning