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

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

The import taxes, which would go into effect next year, are likely to have the biggest impact on generic drugs, as the U.S. imports some $200 billion worth of pharmaceuticals annually. —Danielle Chemtob, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025

In their experiments, scientists found that over three generations, the wasps were more likely to prey on SWD, according to the MSU Department of Entomology. —Sophia Valchine, Freep.com, 9 July 2025

Adverb

Within seconds of takeoff, however, the landing gear retraction process appears to have failed, and the plane’s emergency power generator was likely deployed. —Mika Gröndahl, New York Times, 28 June 2025

When the dust settled, 21 of the 32 picks in the first round came from the Canadian Hockey League — which will likely lean into its development roots more than ever starting next season, now that its older players have become eligible to move to the NCAA. —Carol Schram, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025

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