Definition of improbable

The word "improbable" originated in the 16th century from the Latin word "improbabilis," which meant "not probable" or "hard to believe." The term gained popularity in the English language during the Renaissance, as learning and literature were flourishing. At that time, the concept of probability was first being discussed and explored by scholars, such as the renowned mathematician and scientist, Blaise Pascal. In his treatise, "The Art of Conjecturing," Pascal developed a theory of probability based on the observed frequency of events. The word "improbable" came to indicate an event, outcome, or statement that violated the principles of probability or common sense. For example, in the early 18th century, the chemist Robert Boyle used the term to describe the idea of turning wine into vinegar by exposing it to air, which flew in the face of commonly held beliefs about the nature of wine. Today, "improbable" continues to be used to describe events or situations that are unlikely or hard to believe, particularly in scientific and mathematical contexts. However, its usage is not restricted to these domains, and it can also be applied to human affairs, such as political or economic events, to indicate their unlikeliness or unexpectedness.