Langimage
English

fondly

|fond/ly|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈfɑːnd.li/

🇬🇧

/ˈfɒnd.li/

(fond)

affectionate liking

Base FormComparativeSuperlativeNoun
fondfonderfondestfondness
Etymology
Etymology Information

'fondly' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'fondly,' where 'fond' meant 'foolish' and '-ly' was an adverbial suffix.

Historical Evolution

'fondly' changed from the Middle English word 'fondly' and eventually became the modern English word 'fondly'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'foolishly' or 'naively,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'in a loving or affectionate manner'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a loving or affectionate manner.

She looked fondly at her childhood photos.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adverb 2

with foolish or naive hope or expectation.

He fondly believed he could finish the project in a day.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45