'clearly' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'clerly,' where 'cler' meant 'clear.' 'Linked' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'hlinc,' meaning 'ridge or bank.'

'clearly' changed from the Middle English word 'clerly' and eventually became the modern English word 'clearly.' 'Linked' evolved from the Old English word 'hlinc' to the modern English word 'link.'

Initially, 'clearly' meant 'in a clear manner,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage. 'Linked' originally referred to a physical connection, but now also includes abstract connections.