risk factor

noun

: something that increases risk or susceptibility

Examples of risk factor in a Sentence

Age is one of the risk factors for this disease.
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.
Exercise is also important in preventing obesity and excess belly fat especially, which is a major risk factor associated with colon cancer. Daryl Austin, USA Today, 16 July 2025 However, just five airports account for over 85% of TFS’s revenue from these two sectors, pushing up the risk factor. Kevin Rozario, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025 The greatest risk factor for death during hot weather was social isolation: the elderly shut-in or the person with mental disorders on psychiatric medication. Cory Franklin, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2025 As most heavyweights, Adams is highly dangerous in the early rounds with that risk factor for his opponents lessening later in the fight. Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for risk factor

Word History

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of risk factor was in 1949

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Risk factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/risk%20factor. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

risk factor

noun
: something that increases the possibility that something bad will happen
cigarette smoking is a risk factor for lung cancer

Medical Definition

risk factor

noun
: something that increases risk or susceptibility
poorly controlled hypertension is a risk factor for coronary heart disease

More from Merriam-Webster on risk factor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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