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 Autocrats can manipulate electoral outcomes even before votes are cast or counted. Brian Klaas, The Atlantic, 14 Mar. 2024 No matter the legal outcome, Steven believes No. 44 stands apart from its 98 brethren — in a positive way. Daniel Miller, Los Angeles Times, 14 Mar. 2024 The first hour in trauma, stroke and heart attack care is considered the golden hour for improving outcomes. Varun Kapur, The Mercury News, 13 Mar. 2024 Cunningham said even with more frequent, weekly ultrasound monitoring and the mother delivering early, the outcome is the same, a deceased baby. Jessica Van Egeren, Journal Sentinel, 13 Mar. 2024 Something as simple as using a glass dish versus an aluminum pan can completely change the outcome of your cake. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 13 Mar. 2024 The new study did not track how well ADHD patients consistently adhered to the medications they were prescribed, and other lifestyle factors and aspects of care that could affect outcomes were not considered. Deidre McPhillips, CNN, 12 Mar. 2024 Nursing homes in Pennsylvania and across the country are also lobbying state lawmakers and the federal government to offer extra payments tied to quality outcomes for residents. Harris Meyer, Fortune, 12 Mar. 2024 That outcome has broad consequences for Amylyx Pharmaceuticals, other companies developing ALS drugs, physicians, and, most of all, patients who lost yet another possible treatment for a merciless disease. Annalisa Merelli, STAT, 12 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'outcome.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outcome was in 1788

Dictionary Entries Near outcome

Cite this Entry

“Outcome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outcome. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

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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