risk factor

noun

: something that increases risk or susceptibility

Examples of risk factor in a Sentence

Age is one of the risk factors for this disease.
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.
Kuriakose suggests taking microplastics as a potential risk factor for chronic disease seriously. Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 25 June 2025 Key News Asian equities were mostly higher as investors celebrated the tentative Israel-Iran ceasefire agreement, which removes a significant risk factor to energy shipments, which Asian nations tend to rely on heavily. Brendan Ahern, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025 Constantly using technology without disconnecting is another risk factor. Lauryn Higgins, Time, 24 June 2025 Your May Have a Lower Risk of Fatty Liver High cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) is a risk factor for fatty liver disease. Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for risk factor

Word History

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of risk factor was in 1949

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Risk factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/risk%20factor. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

risk factor

noun
: something that increases the possibility that something bad will happen
cigarette smoking is a risk factor for lung cancer

Medical Definition

risk factor

noun
: something that increases risk or susceptibility
poorly controlled hypertension is a risk factor for coronary heart disease

More from Merriam-Webster on risk factor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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