Like·ly, a. [Compar. Likelier superl. Likeliest.]
1. Worthy of belief; probable; credible; as, a likely story.
It seems likely that he was in hope of being busy and conspicuous. --Johnson.
2. Having probability; having or giving reason to expect; -- followed by the infinitive; as, it is likely to rain.
3. Similar; like; alike. [Obs.]
4. Such as suits; good-looking; pleasing; agreeable; handsome.
5. Having such qualities as make success probable; well adapted to the place; promising; as, a likely young man; a likely servant.