flatly
|flat/ly|
B2
/ˈflæt.li/
(flat)
smooth, level
Etymology
Etymology Information
'flatly' originates from the adjective 'flat', which comes from Old Norse 'flatr', meaning 'level, smooth'.
Historical Evolution
'flatr' transformed into the Middle English word 'flat', and eventually became the modern English word 'flatly'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'level or smooth', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'firmly or unequivocally'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that is firm and unequivocal, often used to express refusal or denial.
She flatly refused to attend the meeting.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41