freely
|free/ly|
B2
/ˈfriːli/
(free)
unrestricted
Etymology
Etymology Information
'freely' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'freolice', where 'freo' meant 'free' and '-lice' was an adverbial suffix.
Historical Evolution
'freolice' transformed into the Middle English word 'frely', and eventually became the modern English word 'freely'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'in a free manner', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
without restriction or interference; openly.
The birds fly freely in the sky.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adverb 2
generously; without hesitation.
She freely gave her time to help others.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35