fairly
- 1
- 2In a way that is fair and treats everyone the same.
Like cutting a cake into equal pieces so everyone gets the same amount.
The teacher graded every test fairly.
The referee treated both teams fairly during the game.
Similarjustly
Oppositeunfairly, unjustly, inequitably
Note
- 3In an honest way, without cheating or tricks.
He won the game fairly, with no cheating at all.
She earned her grade fairly by studying hard every night.
Similarhonestly, legitimately, squarely, properly
Oppositedishonestly, unfairly, illegitimately
Note
- 4In a good or lucky way that helps things go well.
The wind blew fairly behind the boat and carried it home fast.
Their luck held, and the trip began fairly with sunshine and calm water.
Similarfavorably, auspiciously, propitiously
Oppositeunfavorably, inauspiciously, adversely
Note
Less common meanings
- 5Very nearly, almost to the point of really happening.
He fairly jumped out of his chair when the phone rang.
Betty grew so nervous and frightened, that she fairly bawled to her colleague, Moggy, and told her she would not stay in the room unless she sat up all night with her.
1863, Sheridan Le Fanu, The House by the ChurchyardHere, fairly means almost or practically, nearly completely.Similarpractically, positively, virtually, almost, nearly
Note
- 6In neat, clear handwriting that is easy to read.
The young clerk copied the list fairly into the big book.
Write your name fairly at the top of the page.
Note
- 7In a soft and gentle way, without noise or force.
Practice
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Origin
From Middle English fayrly, made from the word 'fair' plus '-ly'.