worst-case

UK: ˈwɜːst keɪs | US: ˈwɜːrst keɪs

Definition

  1. adj. relating to or describing the most unfavorable or severe possible scenario

  2. n. the most unfavorable or severe possible scenario

Structure
worst <most unfavorable>case <situation>
Etymology

The term "worst-case" combines "worst," derived from Old English wyrresta (superlative of "bad"), and "case," from Latin casus (event, situation). It emerged in technical and analytical contexts (e.g., engineering, computing) to describe scenarios planned for maximum adversity. The hyphenated form reflects its role as a compound adjective/noun, emphasizing a logical extreme.

Examples

  1. Engineers designed the bridge to withstand worst-case earthquake conditions.

  2. The report analyzed the worst-case financial outcomes for the project.

  3. Always prepare for the worst-case scenario in disaster planning.

  4. The algorithm’s efficiency was tested under worst-case input data.

  5. Investors feared the worst-case predictions about market collapse.