Meaning & Definition of word "Odds"

Odds

/ɒdz/

noun:

  • 1. The ratio or probability of one outcome occurring against another.
    • Example: The odds of winning the lottery are very low.
  • 2. A measure of the likelihood of a particular outcome in gambling or betting.
    • Example: The odds on the boxing match were heavily in favor of the champion.
  • 3. The state of affairs that makes something difficult or unlikely.
    • Example: She overcame the odds to graduate from college despite many obstacles.
  • 4. In a state of disagreement or conflict.
    • Example: The two brothers were at odds over how to run the family business.

verb:

  • 1. To consider or estimate the likelihood of an event.
    • Example: The team is odds-on to win the championship this year.

Etymology

Middle English 'odds', from the plural of 'odd', meaning 'uneven'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

against all odds:

In spite of difficulties or disadvantages.

the odds are stacked against you:

The circumstances or conditions make success unlikely.

odd man out:

A person who is different from the others in a group.

Related Words

chance:

The occurrence of events in the absence of any obvious intention or cause.

risk:

The possibility of loss or injury.

variance:

The state of being different or varying.

Slang Meanings of odds

Meaning: Long odds

Example Sentence: He faced long odds to succeed in his endeavors.

Meaning: Odds on

Example Sentence: It's odds on they'll win the championship this year.