hazard
hazard Lexical Profile
hazard Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A potential source of danger, harm, or adverse effects on a person, property, or the environment.
"Exposure to prolonged loud noise is an occupational hazard for construction workers."
An obstacle or permanent feature on a golf course, such as a bunker or body of water, designed to challenge the player.
"The golfer carefully evaluated his swing to avoid hitting the ball into the water hazard."
A historical English game of chance played with two dice, from which the modern casino game of craps evolved.
"During the eighteenth century, enormous fortunes were quickly won and lost playing hazard in London's private gentlemen's clubs."
• verb
To offer or venture something (such as a guess, suggestion, or opinion) despite the possibility of being wrong or facing criticism.
"Although she wasn't entirely certain of the final outcome, she decided to hazard a guess."
To put something at risk of loss, injury, or destruction; to expose to danger.
"The commander refused to hazard his troops in a poorly planned frontal assault."
Word Nuance & Usage
In professional risk assessment and occupational safety, a strict distinction is made: a 'hazard' is a condition or object with the potential to cause harm, while a 'risk' is the likelihood or probability that the harm will actually occur.
• Rhymes for hazard
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old French 'hasart', originally referring to a game of chance played with dice, which likely derived from the Arabic word 'az-zahr' meaning 'the dice'. Over time, the meaning broadened from the concept of a gamble to a general danger or risk.