DictionaryAI

nearly

adverb
SayNEER-lee/ˈnɪɹli/UK/ˈnɪəlɪ/

4 meanings of nearly

Practice

  1. 1
    almostadverb
    Almost, but not completely or exactly.

    Like a glass filled almost to the top, with just a little space left.

    We are nearly there, just one more mile to go.

    The cake is nearly ready to come out of the oven.

    UsageNot nearly means far from: not nearly enough time.

    Similaralmost, practically, virtually

    Note
  2. 2
    closelyadverb
    Closely, as when two people or things are closely related or connected.

    Lions and tigers are more nearly related than lions and house cats.

    He could not marry her because they were too nearly related.

    UsageIn nearly related, it means closely, not almost.

    Note
  3. 3
    adverbarchaic
    In a careful way, looking at something very closely.
    Note

Less common meaning

  1. 4
    adverbarchaic
    In a stingy way, unwilling to spend or share money.

Practice

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Origin

Made from the word "near" plus the ending "-ly".

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 1 fact