likely

likely lad

1 a boy or young man viewed as capable or potentially successful; a promising youth.

2 a working-class young man; a young man with characteristics stereotypically associated with the working class. British

☞ The latter usage has been influenced by the title of The Likely Lads, a BBC television sitcom about two working-class young men from Newcastle-upon-Tyne, first broadcast in 1964.

❷ 2007 Steven DunneThe Reaper A likely lad at the front of the queue bawled out 'Encore!' to gales of laughter and derisive hoots.

a likely story used to express disbelief of an account or excuse.

not likely! certainly not; I refuse. informal