I. ˈlīklē, -li adjective
( -er/-est )
Etymology: Middle English likli, from Old Norse glīkligr, līkligr likely, probable, from glīkr, līkr like, alike + -ligr -ly — more at like III
1. : of such a nature or so circumstanced as to make something probable
any approach more likely of success
: in a fair way — usually used with a following infinitive
any … government would be subject to the same dangers and likely to meet the same fate — Elmer Davis
2.
a. : seeming to justify belief or expectation
if there is failure in one quarter … it is a likely sign of failure in the other — R.P.Blackmur
: credible
a likely story
b. : having a better chance of existing or occurring than not : having the character of a probability
tell the road authorities of their likely future demands — John Kemp
it is likely that modern farming methods are increasing the quantities of small animals — American Guide Series: Arkansas
3. : apparently fit or adapted for something expressed or implied : suitable , qualified
a likely place to fish
the more likely district for discovery of prehistoric remains — Edward Clodd
thrusting their spears … into likely -looking water — Wilfred Thesiger
4. : giving promise of success or excellence : promising
sifted … the universities for likely men — Science Digest
5. now dialect : agreeable , handsome
a likely child … thoroughly nice, cheerful, obliging — Frances G. Patton
Synonyms: see probable
II. adverb
Etymology: Middle English likli, from likli, adjective
: in all probability : probably
a popular dance hall was more likely her choice than his — Valentine Williams
they will likely betray themselves by loud breathing — Scribner's
more than likely pictures it in terms of assembly lines — Item
•
- as likely as not