keenly
1 synonym for keenly, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adv — In a sharp, eager, or intense way.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use keenly
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
keenly aware
keenly felt
watch keenly
Etymology
This word came into English via Middle English kenely and kenliche, which developed from Old English cēnlīċe ("keenly, boldly, courageously"); it can be analysed as keen + -ly. It is cognate with Saterland Frisian köinlik ("boldly") and archaic German kühnlich ("bravely").
Full origin of keenly →Frequently asked questions
What does “keenly” mean?
The word “keenly” means in a sharp, eager, or intense way. In plain terms, sharply, eagerly, or intensely — the adverb form of "keen".
How do you pronounce “keenly”?
“Keenly” is pronounced KEEN-lee (/ˈkiːnli/ in IPA).
How do you use “keenly” in a sentence?
Here is “keenly” used in a sentence: “She felt the loss keenly.”
What part of speech is “keenly”?
“Keenly” is an adverb.
