prediction

noun

pre·​dic·​tion pri-ˈdik-shən How to pronounce prediction (audio)
Synonyms of prediction
1
: an act of predicting
2
: something that is predicted : forecast

Synonyms of prediction

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Examples of prediction in a Sentence

Journalists have begun making predictions about the winner of the coming election. Despite predictions that the store would fail, it has done very well. The figures and statistics are used for the prediction of future economic trends.
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.
Read below for a list of the match card, a preview and predictions for how All In will shake out. — Ryan Gaydos Outkick, FOXNews.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Dave Birkett gives his 53-man roster prediction as the Detroit Lions prepare for their final preseason game. — Christian Romo, Freep.com, 28 Aug. 2026 Episodes like the fake Median Strategies polls make some people believe that any attempt to inject false information into the world is potentially a prediction market tactic, Vale said. — Bobby Allyn, NPR, 28 Aug. 2026 That leaves a short window during which malicious activity can contaminate the prediction machinery again. — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prediction

Word History

First Known Use

1561, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of prediction was in 1561

Rhymes for prediction

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Browse Nearby Words

predicted firing
prediction
predictive
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

prediction

noun
pre·​dic·​tion pri-ˈdik-shən How to pronounce prediction (audio)
1
: an act of predicting
2
: something predicted : forecast
a prediction that there would be an earthquake
predictive
-ˈdik-tiv
adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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