likely
UK: ˈlaɪkli | US: ˈlaɪkli
adj. probable or expected to happen
adj. suitable or promising
adv. probably (less common usage)
likely = like<similar> + ly<adjective/adverb suffix>
- like: From Old English gelīc ("similar"), derived from Proto-Germanic galīkaz. Retains the core meaning of resemblance or probability.
- ly: A productive suffix in Old English (-līc), used to form adjectives/adverbs indicating "having the quality of."
Etymology Origin:
The word likely originated in Old English as gelīclīc (literally "body-like"), combining gelīc ("similar") with the adjectival suffix -līc. Over time, gelīclīc simplified to likely, shifting from "having the appearance of" to expressing probability. The suffix -ly remains active in modern English (e.g., friendly, quickly), but likely uniquely bridges adjectival and adverbial roles.
Rain is likely tomorrow, so bring an umbrella.
She’s the most likely candidate for the promotion.
They’ll likely arrive by noon.
This approach seems likely to succeed.
It’s not likely that prices will drop soon.