First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1likely
adjective like·ly \ˈlī-klē\
—used to indicate the chance that something will happen
: seeming to be true
: seeming to be right or suited for a purpose
like·li·erlike·li·est
Full Definition of LIKELY
1
: having a high probability of occurring or being true : very probable <rain is likely today>
2
: apparently qualified : suitable <a likely place>
4
: promising <a likely candidate>
5
: attractive <a likely child>
See likely defined for English-language learners
See likely defined for kids
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Origin of LIKELY
Middle English, from Old English gelīclic fitting (from gelīc like) and Old Norse glīkligr, līkligr, from glīkr like; akin to Old English gelīc
Related to LIKELY
- Synonyms
- probable
- Antonyms
- doubtful, dubious, improbable, questionable, unlikely
2likely
adverb
: without much doubt
Full Definition of LIKELY
: in all probability : probably <those who seek power will most likely wind up exercising it — Halton Arp>
See likely defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of LIKELY
14th century
Related to LIKELY
- Synonyms
- assumably, doubtless, probably, presumably
- Antonyms
- improbably
LIKELY Defined for Kids
1likely
adjective like·ly \ˈlī-klē\
like·li·erlike·li··est
Definition of LIKELY for Kids
1
: very possibly going to happen <That glass is likely to fall.>
2
: seeming to be the truth : believable <That is the most likely explanation.>
3
: giving hope of turning out well : promising <They found a likely spot for a picnic.>
2likely
adverb
Definition of LIKELY for Kids
: without great doubt <She will likely be elected class president.>
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