likely
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1like·ly
adjective \ˈlī-klē\like·li·erlike·li·est
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 Examples of LIKELY
- That seems to be the most likely explanation.
- This looks like a likely spot for a picnic.
- They regard him as a likely candidate for the job.
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
First Known Use: 14th century
Related to LIKELY
- Synonyms
- probable
- Antonyms
- doubtful, dubious, improbable, questionable, unlikely
2likely
adverbDefinition of LIKELY
: in all probability : probably <those who seek power will most likely wind up exercising it — Halton Arp>
Examples of LIKELY
- He'll very likely be late.
- “Will it rain tomorrow?” “Most likely.”
First Known Use of LIKELY
14th century
Related to LIKELY
- Synonyms
- assumably, doubtless, probably, presumably
- Antonyms
- improbably
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Previous Word in the Dictionary: likeliness
All Words Near: likely
Previous Word in the Dictionary: likeliness
All Words Near: likely
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