What does jeopardized mean?
Jeopardized is the past tense and past participle of the verb jeopardize, meaning to place something at risk of harm, loss, failure, or ruin. It is used when a decision, event, or external condition threatens the success or integrity of a person, organization, plan, or opportunity. The word frequently appears in formal reporting concerning politics, business, science, safety, and law, although it is equally natural in conversation. Its implication is often that serious consequences are at stake, but it does not necessarily mean that harm has already occurred. For example, a storm may jeopardize an expedition, while a policy decision may jeopardize public trust or a negotiation. The word is especially associated with American spelling; British English normally writes “jeopardised.” Jeopardized is useful when the focus is on the threatened outcome or the consequences of an action, especially when the potential loss is significant and consequential.
verbJeopardized is the past tense and past participle of jeopardize, meaning to put something at risk of harm, loss, failure, or ruin.
- To put a person, thing, plan, or outcome at risk of harm, damage, failure, or ruin.
"The senator's decision to disclose the confidential report jeopardized the investigation."
"A sudden change in the weather jeopardized the crew's attempt to reach the island."
"The company's decision to cut its research budget jeopardized its long-term competitiveness."
Its ancestor was a French phrase for a game played with a divided stake: a literal gamble became a lasting symbol of risk.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does jeopardized come from?
The word was formed in the 19th century by adding the suffix -ize to jeopardy. Jeopardy comes through Middle English from Old French jeu parti, originally referring to a game played with a divided stake, and ultimately from words associated with play and gaming. Related English words including joke, jocular, and jocose trace to the same Latin root for game, play, or joking.
Related word forms
How jeopardized is actually used
This form is standard in American English and is formal to neutral in register. It usually describes a serious risk to safety, success, reputation, or institutional stability. British English normally uses the spelling “jeopardised,” though the American form is also understood.
Easily confused with jeopardized
Jeopardy is a noun meaning danger or the possibility of harm, whereas jeopardized is a verb form meaning to place something in danger.