probable

1 of 2

adjective

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

Synonyms of probable

Relevance

Adjective

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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
Health officials in New York are reporting at least three probable cases of a rare bacterial illness on Long Island. — Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026 The official announcement confirming this special event is typically made two weeks in advance, suggesting Wednesday, August 26, as the probable date. — David Phelan, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
Noun
Overall, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has gotten reports of more than 11,500 cases (including 4,173 confirmed and over 7,400 probable) from 41 states. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 23 July 2026 Nysos, the impressive winner of the San Diego Handicap at Del Mar, heads the list of four probables for the Pacific Classic. — Bill Center, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Aug. 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

Phrases Containing probable

Rhymes for probable

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Browse Nearby Words

probabilize
probable
probable cause
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Cite this Entry

“Probable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/probable. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

probable

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

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