having a good chance of happening or being true; probable
It is likely to rain this afternoon, so bring an umbrella.
The most likely explanation is that she missed the bus.
✦ From Middle English likly, from Old Norse líklegur, meaning ‘probable’ or ‘fitting’.
probably; with a good chance of happening
He will likely arrive before noon.
Tickets will likely sell out quickly, so buy yours today.
attractive or pleasant in appearance
He was a likely young man, full of energy and charm.
The tavern welcomed a group of likely lads from the village.
not expected to happen, be true, or be possible
It’s unlikely that it will snow in July here.
Because he didn’t study, it’s unlikely he will pass the exam.
✦ From the prefix un- “not” + likely “probable”; recorded since the late 14th century.
describing someone or something that does not have the usual qualities you would expect for a particular role or situation
The shy boy became an unlikely hero when he rescued the dog from the river.
She found friendship in the most unlikely place—a crowded subway.
✦ Same origin as the primary sense: un- “not” + likely. The extended use to describe surprising suitability developed in the 18th century.
closely resembling a real person or thing, particularly in appearance.
The robot's movements were so lifelike that everyone thought it was human.
She painted a lifelike portrait of her late grandfather.
✦ Early 19th century: from 'life' + '-like', originally meaning 'like life'.
