Scenario

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /sɛˈnɑːɹiəʊ/
• US IPA: /sɪˈnæɹioÊŠ/
• AusE IPA: /səˈneːɹiəʉ/

Origin

An Italian word (a derivation of scena ("scene")), from Latin scaena. See scene.

Full definition of scenario

Noun

1. An outline of the plot of a dramatic or literary work.
2. A screenplay itself, or an outline or a treatment of it.
3. An outline or model of an expected or supposed sequence of events.
• 2012, August 23, Alasdair Lamont, Hearts 0-1 Liverpool, Hearts were keen to avoid a repeat of the scenario at this stage of last season's competition, when they found themselves two goals down inside the opening quarter of an hour.

Derived terms

• worst case scenario