likely
|like/ly|
B1
/ˈlaɪkli/
probable
Etymology
Etymology Information
'likely' originates from Old Norse, specifically the word 'líklegur,' where 'lík-' meant 'body' or 'form' and '-legur' meant 'like' or 'suitable.'
Historical Evolution
'líklegur' transformed into the Middle English word 'likly,' and eventually became the modern English word 'likely.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'having the appearance of truth,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'probable or expected.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
having a high probability of occurring or being true.
It is likely to rain tomorrow.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adverb 1
in all probability; probably.
He will likely arrive late.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35