hazard
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈhæzərd/
KK: /ˈhæzərd/
noun
Definition
A situation or condition that can cause harm, injury, or danger.
Example
The construction site was marked with signs to warn of potential hazards.
Conversation
I was reading about the different kinds of hazards in the workplace.
Oh really? What did you find out?
There are so many, like electrical hazards and chemical ones.
That makes sense; it's important to be aware of them for safety.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
risk
threat
peril
Antonyms
safety
certainty
protection
transitive verb
Definition
To put someone or something in a situation where there is a risk of danger or harm.
Example
He decided to hazard a guess about the answer to the riddle.
Tense Forms
Past: hazarded
Past Participle: hazarded
Conversation
I think I might hazard a guess about what they are planning for the surprise party.
That's a risky move! What if you're wrong?
True, but it could be fun to take a chance and see if I’m right.
Root Explanation
Hazard comes from the Old French word *hasard*, meaning chance or risk, which itself is derived from the Arabic *al-zahr* (meaning the dice). The word refers to a game of chance, thus evolving to mean a risk or danger.
Memory Tip
Think of the game of chance represented by dice ('al-zahr') — that's why hazard means a risk or danger.
Visually Confused Words
rehazard
mazard
khazar
prehazard
perhazard
hard
haphazard