probable

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   apparently destined

   the probable consequences of going ahead with the scheme

2. 2
   adj

   Likely or most likely to be true.

   It's probable that it will rain tomorrow.

3. 3
   adj

   Likely to happen.

   With all the support we have, success is looking probable.

4. 4
   adj

   Supporting, or giving ground for, belief, but not demonstrating.

   probable evidence

5. 5
   noun

   Something that is likely.

   Four of the 32 251 Ku aircraft turned back, but the other 28 fought for 20 minutes against a reported 100 enemy aircraft, claiming 18 destroyed and five probables.

6. 6
   adj

   likely but not certain to be or become true or real

7. 7
   noun

   an applicant likely to be chosen

8. 8
   adj

   Capable of being proved.

Etymology

From Middle English probable, from Old French probable, from Latin probābilis (“that may be proved, credible”), from probāre (“to test, examine”); see probe, probity, prove. Compare recent doublet provable.