outcome

noun

out·​come ˈau̇t-ˌkəm How to pronounce outcome (audio)
: something that follows as a result or consequence
a surprising outcome
patient outcomes of bypass surgery
We are still awaiting the final outcome of the trial.

Examples of outcome in a Sentence

the outcome of the election We are still awaiting the final outcome of the trial. There are two possible outcomes.
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.
But authentic, demonstrable progress: proof of better outcomes, built on real expertise. Kate Hardcastle, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2025 But perhaps the most classically Franciscan outcome of the choice was that the Pope’s body had to be driven away from the Vatican grounds, across the Tiber, and through the streets of Rome. Vinson Cunningham, New Yorker, 27 Apr. 2025 But as contagious as measles is, the outcome caused by just a few cases could be devastating, especially for children. Dan Sweeney, Sun Sentinel, 27 Apr. 2025 The most devastating of all those outcomes undoubtedly came in 2021 when, with a 3-1 series lead, the Leafs failed to close out the Habs with three chances to do so. Jonas Siegel, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for outcome

Word History

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outcome was in 1788

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Outcome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outcome. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

outcome

noun
out·​come ˈau̇t-ˌkəm How to pronounce outcome (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on outcome

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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