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
4
: promising
a likely candidate
5
: attractive
a likely child
: in all probability : probably
… those who seek power will most likely wind up exercising it …—
Halton Arp
Halton ArpExamples 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
Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 12 May 2026
The families least likely to be able to navigate a DCF appeal are the same families most likely to be caught in this bill’s net.
—James R Mason, Hartford Courant, 12 May 2026
Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 12 May 2026
The data center at the port will likely draw more than 100 megawatts of power, which is the equivalent to the electricity usage of 100,000 households.
—Sydney Sasser, Arkansas Online, 12 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for likely
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Adjective
As the truly destitute are not likely to receive such invitations, this petty thievery is simply an abuse of hospitality and an insult to those who have offered it.
—Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 12 May 2026
The families least likely to be able to navigate a DCF appeal are the same families most likely to be caught in this bill’s net.
—James R Mason, Hartford Courant, 12 May 2026
Adverb
The 22-year-old will likely continue working on songs and playing guitar with his indie-punk band called Lawn, a campus fave.
—Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 12 May 2026
The data center at the port will likely draw more than 100 megawatts of power, which is the equivalent to the electricity usage of 100,000 households.
—Sydney Sasser, Arkansas Online, 12 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for likely
Cite this Entry
“Likely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/likely. Accessed 13 May. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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