lightly,
|light-ly|
/ˈlaɪtli/
(lightly)
not heavy; gently / slight
Etymology
'lightly' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'līhtlice,' where the root 'līht' meant 'not heavy' and the suffix '-lice'/'-ly' formed an adverbial sense.
'līhtlice' (Old English) → Middle English 'lightliche'/'lightlyche' → Modern English 'lightly'.
Initially it meant 'in a manner of being not heavy' (physical lightness); over time it broadened to include 'gently,' 'slightly,' and 'not seriously.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
transformation: noun form 'light' (see 'light' for meanings such as 'visible illumination').
See the entry for 'light' (noun).
Verb 1
transformation: verb form 'light' (see 'light' for meanings such as 'to make burn' or 'to illuminate').
See the entry for 'light' (verb).
Adjective 1
transformation: adjective form 'light' (see 'light').
See the entry for 'light' (adjective).
Adverb 1
in a gentle or delicate manner; not forcefully or heavily.
She placed the vase down lightly so it wouldn't break.
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Antonyms
Adverb 2
not seriously or with little concern; treating something as unimportant.
Don't take my warning lightly.
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Antonyms
Adverb 3
slightly; to a small extent (used with verbs like 'season' or 'touch').
I salted the soup lightly.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2026/01/05 09:29