earnestly
Earnestly (adv) means In a sincere, serious way, with real effort or feeling behind it. Example: “She earnestly promised to do better next time.”
How to use earnestly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDoing or saying something with genuine sincerity, not half-heartedly.
Word forms
more earnestly comparative, most earnestly superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ promised to do better next time.
Etymology
From Old English eornostlīċe, built from earnest plus the adverb ending -ly.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for earnestly
See all rhymes for earnestly →Frequently asked questions
What does “earnestly” mean?
The word “earnestly” means in a sincere, serious way, with real effort or feeling behind it. In plain terms, doing or saying something with genuine sincerity, not half-heartedly.
How do you pronounce “earnestly”?
“Earnestly” is pronounced UR-nihst-lee (/ˈɝnɪstli/ in IPA).
How do you use “earnestly” in a sentence?
Here is “earnestly” used in a sentence: “She earnestly promised to do better next time.”
What part of speech is “earnestly”?
“Earnestly” is an adverb.
Where does the word “earnestly” come from?
The word “earnestly” comes from Old English. From Old English eornostlīċe, built from earnest plus the adverb ending -ly.