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: involving, projecting, or providing for the worst possible circumstances or outcome of a given situation
a worst-case scenario

Examples of worst-case 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.
Implementing a table seating arrangement for a holiday gathering can either set the stage for an organized and harmonious event or, worst-case scenario, ruffle some feathers. Tessa Cooper, Southern Living, 16 Nov. 2025 Phoenix has been preparing for worst-case scenarios by building access to backup supplies. Austin Corona, AZCentral.com, 10 Nov. 2025 In a worst-case scenario, the molten salt fuel would drop into a safety chamber and solidify, trapping radioactive materials. Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 6 Nov. 2025 If the music stops in a worst-case scenario, everyone will suffer. Barry M. Bloom, Sportico.com, 4 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for worst-case

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of worst-case was in 1964

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Cite this Entry

“Worst-case.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/worst-case. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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