odds

odds · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The probability or likelihood of something happening or being the case.

  2. 2.

    (in gambling) The ratio expressing the amount a bettor wins relative to the stake.

  3. 3.

    Superiority in strength, power, or resources.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    against all odds — Despite very unfavorable circumstances
  • •
    the odds are that — It is likely that
  • •
    at odds (with) — In conflict or disagreement
  • •
    odds and ends — Miscellaneous items
  • •
    by all odds — Certainly; without doubt
  • •
    odds-on — Very likely to happen or succeed
  • •
    even odds — Equal probability (50-50)
  • •
    long odds — Very unlikely

Related words

See also: chance, likelihood, odd, probability
Synonyms: chances, likelihood, probability

Etymology

From Old Norse oddi ("point, triangle"), related to the idea of an uneven number or advantage.