probable

1 of 2

adjective

prob·​a·​ble ˈprä-bə-bəl How to pronounce probable (audio)
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

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
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.
Adjective
Wind gusts of up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) are probable. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 30 June 2025 How much the Uruguayan—who’s been at the Anfield club for three years—would exactly cost at this initial stage remains unclear, yet a move seems probable. Henry Flynn, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
Noun
Pitching probables Thursday: Rockies RHP Chase Dollander (2-7, 6.57) at Nationals RHP Trevor Williams (3-8, 5.71), 11:15 a.m. Friday: Diamondbacks RHP Zac Gallen (4-8, 5.19) at Rockies LHP Austin Gomber (0-0, 0.00), 6:40 p.m. Want more Rockies news? Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 17 June 2025 Even with two All-Star aces as probables, we should be treated to ample offense this weekend. Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 30 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for probable

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of probable was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Probable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/probable. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

probable

adjective
prob·​a·​ble
ˈpräb-ə-bəl
: reasonably sure but not certain of happening or being true : likely

More from Merriam-Webster on probable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!