chiefly
|chief-ly|
B2
/ˈtʃiːfli/
(chief)
leader
Etymology
Etymology Information
'chiefly' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'chiefly,' where 'chief' meant 'head' or 'leader.'
Historical Evolution
'chiefly' changed from the Middle English word 'chiefly' and has remained largely unchanged in modern English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'in the manner of a chief,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'primarily or mainly.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
primarily; mainly
The book is chiefly concerned with the author's childhood.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35