risk
risk Lexical Profile
risk Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A situation involving exposure to danger, harm, or loss; the possibility that something unpleasant or unwelcome will happen.
"Regular exercise and a balanced diet can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease."
A person or thing regarded as likely to turn out well or badly, as specified, in a particular context or financial venture (especially in insurance or lending).
"Because of his steady income and spotless credit history, the bank considered him a low risk for the mortgage."
• verb
To expose someone or something valued to danger, harm, or loss.
"The rescue team was willing to risk their own lives to save the stranded hikers."
To act in such a way as to bring about the possibility of an unpleasant or unwelcome event.
"If you wait until the last minute to book your flight, you risk paying a much higher fare."
To incur the chance of unfortunate consequences by engaging in an uncertain action or venture.
"Few investors were willing to risk a large sum of capital on an unproven technology."
• Rhymes for risk
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the mid-17th century from French 'risque', which came from Italian 'risco' or 'rischio' (meaning 'danger'), likely tracing back to Medieval Latin 'risicum' in reference to the maritime hazards faced by merchant ships.