predictable

adjective

pre·​dict·​able pri-ˈdik-tə-bəl How to pronounce predictable (audio)
Synonyms of predictable
1
: capable of being predicted : able to be known, seen, or declared in advance
a predictable reaction/outcome
a very predictable plot
changes occurring at a steady and predictable rate
2
: behaving in a way that is expected
I knew he would say that. He's so predictable.
predictability
pri-ˌdik-tə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce predictable (audio)
noun
By comparing the projections, meteorologists can get a measure of the weather's predictability: The less agreement among the forecasts, the less predictable the weather. —Richard Monastersky

Examples of predictable in a Sentence

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.
Legacy farming practices depend on predictable weather patterns, but today’s extreme weather requires effective, real-time interventions to keep farms economically viable and ecologically sustainable. — Jonathan Destler, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2026 The focus is on agentic capability and predictable enterprise deployment. — Samuel Axon, ArsTechnica, 26 Aug. 2026 When pieces feel kitschy or predictable, the room loses its emotional depth. — Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 26 Aug. 2026 In reality, Loesby contends, many struggles reflect predictable structural mismatches — a lawyer who prefers depth and analysis struggling in a role that rewards constant responsiveness, or one who thrives on collaboration disengaging in isolation. — Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for predictable

Word History

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of predictable was in 1820

Rhymes for predictable

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Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

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

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