: the chance that something will happen : probability
There's very little likelihood of that happening. [=that is very unlikely to happen]
changes that in all likelihood will be made soon [=changes that are very likely to be made soon]
… a strong likelihood that he is correct … T. D. Anderson
The likelihood of instability might increase because of the economic crisis. Fareed Zakaria
… could reduce the likelihood of a fire in their convenience store by banning smoking in their building … Harriet E. Jones et al.

Examples of likelihood in a Sentence

There is a strong likelihood that he will be reelected. the weatherman on TV said that the likelihood of rain today was fairly high
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.
The downside for the Marlins: Everything else -- starting with the likelihood Opening Day will be the beginning of the end of Alcantara’s time here, the beginning of goodbye. Greg Cote, Miami Herald, 21 Mar. 2025 Rather than ditch all that information after prison, the data can be used by state agencies responsible for licensing to gauge the likelihood of future criminal acts. Walter Pavlo, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025 In all likelihood: nine more games, a couple more wins, a few defeats, the occasional draw — and a 17th-place finish. Steve Madeley, The Athletic, 20 Mar. 2025 These programs would work with community organizations to identify those in need and connect them with housing resources and support services early on, thereby reducing the likelihood of people resorting to makeshift encampments. Courier-News, Chicago Tribune, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for likelihood

Word History

Etymology

see likely entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of likelihood was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Likelihood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/likelihood. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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