worst-case

adjective

ˈwərst-ˈkās How to pronounce worst-case (audio)
: involving, projecting, or providing for the worst possible circumstances or outcome of a given situation
a worst-case scenario

Examples of worst-case in a Sentence

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.
No need to fill in the blanks with your worst-case scenarios. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 2 Aug. 2026 The official also asked agency heads to prepare contingency plans identifying places to save money in a worst-case scenario that cuts need to be made. — Dan Raby, CBS News, 31 July 2026 Don't force a silver lining, and don't spiral into worst-case thinking. — Kevin Kruse, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 Brent could even surpass the 2008 peak of $146 per barrel in a worst-case scenario of full-scale regional war in the Middle East, the analyst said. — Spencer Kimball,chloe Taylor,lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for worst-case

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of worst-case was in 1964

Rhymes for worst-case

See All Rhymes for worst-case

Browse Nearby Words

worst
worst-case
worsted
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Cite this Entry

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

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