likely

1 of 2

adjective

like·​ly ˈlī-klē 

likelier; likeliest

1

: having a high probability of occurring or being true : very probable

rain is likely today

2

: apparently qualified : suitable

a likely place

3

: reliable, credible

a likely enough story

4

: promising

a likely candidate

5

: attractive

a likely child

likely

2 of 2

adverb

: in all probability : probably

… those who seek power will most likely wind up exercising it …

—Halton Arp

Synonyms of likely

Adjective

• probable
• possible
• inevitable

Adverb

• probably

Examples of likely in a Sentence

Adjective

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.

Adverb

He'll very likely be late.

“Will it rain tomorrow?” “Most likely.”

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

All the research Matthews' group had conducted, along with weather data from the time of the crash, was synthesized to develop a map of the most likely location and a search area of 10 square nautical miles. — Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 22 July 2026

In an 83-page opinion, Reyes said the plaintiffs were likely to prevail on the merits of the case — contrary to the ultimate ruling by the Supreme Court. — Jay Weaver july 22, Miami Herald, 22 July 2026

Adverb

Office experts say buildings that lack a story, especially in Atlanta’s current market, likely won’t convince anyone to give them a second look. — Zachary Hansen, AJC.com, 21 July 2026

Even in 2030, much of the event production will likely continue. — Henry Bushnell, New York Times, 21 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective and Adverb

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

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adverb

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing likely

• likely-looking
• more than likely
• most likely
• not bloody likely!
• not likely

Rhymes for likely

• unlikely

Kids Definition

likely

1 of 2 adjective

like·​ly ˈlī-klē 

likelier; likeliest

1

: very possibly going to happen

it's likely to start raining any time

2

: seeming to be the truth : believable

a likely story

3

: giving hope of turning out well : promising

a likely spot for a picnic

a likely looking customer

likely

2 of 2 adverb

: without great doubt : probably

the first loaves of bread people made were likely hard and flat