Pronunciation: [ˈatɹɪsk] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "atrisk" is incorrect. The correct spelling is "at risk", which means to be in danger or in a vulnerable position. The IPA phonetic transcription of "at risk" is /æt rɪsk/. The first syllable is pronounced as "at" with the vowel sound /æ/ like in the word "cat". The second syllable is pronounced as "risk" with the vowel sound /ɪ/ like in the word "sit" and the consonant sound /sk/ at the end.
At-risk is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is considered to be in a situation or condition that may result in harm, danger, or negative outcomes. It indicates the presence of vulnerability, exposing individuals or entities to potential risks or hazards.
When referring to individuals, at-risk typically indicates that certain factors or circumstances render someone more susceptible to experiencing negative consequences such as physical harm, emotional distress, or social disadvantages. These factors may include poverty, low socio-economic status, lack of access to education or healthcare, substance abuse, involvement in criminal activities, or the presence of mental health issues. Such individuals are often seen as being in need of additional support, resources, or intervention to prevent or mitigate the potential negative outcomes they may face.
In a broader context, at-risk can also be used to describe objects, places, or conditions that are susceptible to damage, deterioration, or unfavorable consequences. This can include endangered species, fragile ecosystems, dilapidated structures, crumbling infrastructure, or regions prone to natural disasters. The term at-risk implies a sense of urgency or concern, highlighting the need for preventive measures, safeguarding, or strategic planning to mitigate or minimize potential harm.
In essence, the term at-risk connotes a state of heightened vulnerability or exposure to potential harm, encompassing a wide range of individuals, situations, or conditions that necessitate attention, care, and proactive measures to ensure safety, well-being, and positive outcomes.
The word "at-risk" is a compound word formed by combining the preposition "at" and the noun "risk". The term "at-risk" originated in the 1960s as a concept in the field of education. It was first used to describe children or students who faced various social, economic, educational, or personal circumstances that put them in a higher likelihood of experiencing negative outcomes or failure.
The etymology of the word "risk" can be traced back to the Italian word "risico" and the French word "risque", both of which were derived from the Arabic word "rizq", meaning "what is allotted, provision, fate, or lot". The term evolved in English during the 17th century, referring to a situation involving exposure to danger or potential harm.
