Likely
/ˈlaɪkli/noun
Having a high probability of occurring or being true.
Did you know?The word 'likely' is tied to the concept of 'likeness', suggesting that what resembles or mirrors reality is more probable—it’s like a glimpse into fate!
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*leig-
“to lie, to be situated, to be in a place”
Old English
Old English
gelic
“similar, like”
Middle English
Middle English
likli
“having the same appearance or qualities”
14th Century
Middle English
likli
“probable, plausible”
Modern English
Modern English
likely
“having a good chance of being true or happening”
Explore more surprising origins