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Definition of precarious

precarious

/prɪˈkɛr.i.əs/
pre · car · i · ous
Adverb:precariously
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precarious Lexical Profile

precarious Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Dependent on chance or uncertain conditions; characterized by a lack of security or stability.

Example

"Many freelance workers face a precarious financial existence without guaranteed monthly income."

2

Not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse.

Example

"The hikers carefully crossed the narrow, precarious wooden bridge suspended high above the gorge."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for precarious

• Nearby Words

prebuttal
precalculus
precancerous
precarious
precariously
precariousness
precast

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-17th century from Latin precarius ('obtained by entreaty or prayer'), from prex ('prayer'); originally used as a legal term for property held only at the pleasure of another, the sense later broadened to describe anything uncertain or dangerously unstable.

Cite this Entry

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