deftly
|deft/ly|
B2
/ˈdɛftli/
(deft)
skillful action
Etymology
Etymology Information
'deftly' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'daft,' where 'daft' meant 'gentle' or 'mild.'
Historical Evolution
'daft' transformed into the modern English word 'deft,' and eventually became 'deftly' as an adverbial form.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'gentle' or 'mild,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'skillful' or 'clever.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a skillful, clever, or quick manner.
She deftly maneuvered the car into the tight parking space.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41