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Antonyms for likely


Grammar : Adj, adv
Spell : lahyk-lee
Phonetic Transcription : ˈlaɪk li



Definition of likely

Origin :
  • c.1300, perhaps from Old Norse likligr "likely," from likr "like" (see like (adj.)). Old English had cognate geliclic. Meaning "having the appearance of being strong and capable" is from mid-15c., though now mostly confined to American English; according to OED this sense is perhaps influenced by like (v.). Sense of "good-looking" is from late 15c. Meaning "probably" is attested from late 14c., now principally in American English.
  • LIKELY. That may be liked; that may please; handsome. In the United States, as a colloquial term, respectable; worthy of esteem; sensible.--Worcester. [Bartlett]
  • As an adverb, late 14c., from the adjective.
  • adj probable, apt, hopeful
  • adv probably

Synonyms for likely

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