adjective, -li⋅er, -li⋅est, adverb | 1. | probably or apparently destined (usually fol. by an infinitive): something not likely to happen. |
| 2. | seeming like truth, fact, or certainty; reasonably to be believed or expected; believable: a likely story. |
| 3. | seeming to fulfill requirements or expectations; apparently suitable: a likely place for a restaurant. |
| 4. | showing promise of achievement or excellence; promising: a fine, likely young man. |
| 5. | probably: We will likely stay home this evening. |

like·ly (līk'lē) adj. like·li·er, like·li·est
Probably. [Middle English likly, from Old English gelīclīc (from gelīc, similar) and from Old Norse līkligr (from līkr, similar); see līk- in Indo-European roots.] Usage Note: Used as an adverb likely is most commonly preceded by a modifier such as very or quite: He will quite likely require some help with his classes. But the unmodified use of likely is common enough in educated writing, and though it might be better avoided in highly formal style, it should not be regarded as incorrect: They'll likely buy a new car this year. See Usage Note at liable. |