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Definition of maybe

maybe

/ˈmeɪ.bi/
may · be
Plural:maybes
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maybe Lexical Profile

maybe Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

Perhaps; possibly; used to express uncertainty or possibility.

Example

"Maybe the weather will clear up by this afternoon so we can go for a walk."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A mere possibility, uncertainty, or noncommittal answer.

Example

"We need a firm commitment from all participants by Friday, with no ifs, ands, or maybes."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for maybe
Antonyms
View all antonyms for maybe

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse the one-word adverb 'maybe' (meaning perhaps) with the two-word verb phrase 'may be' (meaning might be).

• Rhymes for maybe

• Nearby Words

maya
mayan
mayapple
maybe
maybug
mayday
mayflower

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in late Middle English as a contraction of the phrase 'it may be', translating the Old French expression 'peut-être'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Maybe. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/maybe
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