perhaps

1 of 2

adverb

per·​haps pər-ˈhaps How to pronounce perhaps (audio)
ˈpraps
Synonyms of perhaps
: possibly but not certainly : maybe

perhaps

2 of 2

noun

: something open to doubt or conjecture

Synonyms of perhaps

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Adverb

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Examples of perhaps in a Sentence

Adverb perhaps we will not have to take this exam, but I doubt it
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adverb
The league could perhaps benefit from such messaging in its stadiums and on its helmets because DUI arrests or other traffic incidents involving NFL people are not uncommon. — Armando Salguero Outkick, FOXNews.com, 29 Aug. 2026 This $6 high-neck tank is a layering staple (under a polka-dot cardigan, perhaps), while this chambray button-down is practically begging to be worn at the pumpkin patch. — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 29 Aug. 2026 Monetary policy appears to have been slow to respond, late — and therefore (perhaps) unsound. — George Calhoun, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026 Counterintuitively, perhaps, this is where some of the most joyful-sounding material is found too. — Chris Willman, Variety, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for perhaps

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

per + hap

First Known Use

Adverb

circa 1520, in the meaning defined above

Noun

circa 1643, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of perhaps was circa 1520

Rhymes for perhaps

See All Rhymes for perhaps

Browse Nearby Words

perhalogen
perhaps
per head
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Perhaps.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perhaps. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

perhaps

adverb
per·​haps
pər-ˈ(h)aps, 
ˈpraps
: possibly but not certainly
Etymology

Adverb

from per (preposition) "by, according to" and haps, plural of hap "chance, chance occurrence" — related to happen, happy, mishap

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