Langimage
English

darkly

|dark-ly|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈdɑrkli/

🇬🇧

/ˈdɑːkli/

(dark)

absence of light

Base FormPluralComparativeSuperlativeNounAdverb
darkdarksdarkerdarkestdarknessdarkly
Etymology
Etymology Information

'darkly' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'deorc,' where 'deorc' meant 'dark or obscure.'

Historical Evolution

'deorc' transformed into the Middle English word 'derk,' and eventually became the modern English word 'darkly.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'obscure or lacking light,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'gloomy or ominous.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a manner that is gloomy or pessimistic.

He spoke darkly about the future.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adverb 2

in a way that suggests evil or danger.

The sky darkened, and the wind howled darkly.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/06/13 18:42