noun / verb

risk

RISK/rɪsk/

Exposure to a possibility of harm or loss.

The glass at the table's edge is at risk of falling.

An intact drinking glass stands precariously at the edge of a table, most of its base projecting over the edge above a hard tile floor.

Etymology

French risque already meant exposure to danger or harm. Commercial use applied this to possible losses of ships, goods, or property; the word's deeper origin is uncertain.

In context

Veeam1:15

if a company cannot recover from a system failure and may not be able to serve its customers causing a loss of revenue and clients loyalty the risk increases

Veeam Talks: Episode 1 - Data Testing & Recoverability (International Version)

More examples

You risk injury if you climb without a harness.
We weigh the risks before making a decision.
She risked her savings to open the bakery.
The insurer considers the old warehouse a poor risk.

Forms

risk · risks · risked · risking

risky adjective — Involving a possibility of harm or loss.

Similar words

danger: Emphasizes potential harm rather than its likelihood or financial cost.
hazard: Usually names a source of harm rather than the possibility.