risk
risk
(rĭsk) noun
1.
The possibility of suffering harm or loss; danger.
2.
A factor, thing, element, or course involving uncertain danger; a hazard: "the usual risks of the desert: rattlesnakes, the heat, and lack of water" (Frank Clancy).
3.
a. The danger or probability of loss to an insurer. b. The amount that an insurance company stands to lose.
4. a. The variability of returns from an investment. b. The chance of nonpayment of a debt.
5. One considered with respect to the possibility of loss: a poor risk.
noun
, attributive.
Often used to modify another noun: risk factors; risk management.
verb
, transitive
risked, risking, risks
1.
To expose to a chance of loss or damage; hazard.
2.
To incur the risk of: His action risked a sharp reprisal. See synonyms at endanger.
idiom.
at risk or at-risk (ătʹrĭskʹ)
Being endangered, as from exposure to disease or from a lack of parental or familial guidance and proper health care: at risk youth in the inner cities; at-risk groups of children not having received the vaccine.
[French risque, from Italian risco, rischio.]
risk
ʹer noun