plural risks
1
: the possibility that something bad or unpleasant (such as an injury or a loss) will happen
I prefer not to expose my money to too much risk.
The degree of risk is minimal.
All investments have/involve an element of risk.
The trip didn't seem like much of a risk.
I'm aware of the risks associated with this treatment.
There is a risk of liver damage with this medication.
Wearing a seatbelt greatly reduces the risk of injury or death in a car accident.
We feel that this product presents a significant risk to public health.
To me, skydiving is not worth the risk.
2
: someone or something that may cause something bad or unpleasant to happen
Smoking is a risk to your lungs.
Kids think it's fun, but they don't realize the risks involved.
Excess body fat is a serious/significant health risk.
The government claims she is a risk to national security.
3
: a person or thing that someone judges to be a good or bad choice for insurance, a loan, etc.
Drivers who are considered poor risks have to pay more for car insurance.
The bank will determine if a potential borrower is a good/bad credit risk. [=someone who is likely/unlikely to pay back money the bank loans]
risks; risked; risking
1
: to put (something) in a situation in which it could be lost, damaged, etc.
She risked her life to save her children.
He risked all his money on starting his own business.
2
: to do something that could result in (something bad or unpleasant)
He risked breaking his neck.
She's risking being considered too sentimental.
The country risked a war.
brave people who risked being killed to help others
I'm not willing to risk getting lost. I'm going to buy a map.
The company is risking the loss of millions of dollars.
3
: to do (something that may have harmful or bad results)
It's not wise to risk traveling so soon after surgery.
We should stop for more gas. We probably have enough, but I don't want to risk it. [=I don't want to possibly not have enough gas]
Cite this Entry
“Risk.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/risk. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
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