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.
Obesity: Obesity is a common risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Julia Ries, Health, 9 Apr. 2025 Cigarette smoking was the leading risk factor contributing to cancer cases and death overall, followed by excess body weight and alcohol consumption. Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025 Meta noted Zuckerberg’s love of combat sports in its annual report as a potential risk factor. Alex Sherman, CNBC, 2 Apr. 2025 Eczema is a key risk factor for having a peanut allergy. Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 30 Mar. 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 22 Apr. 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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