honestly
|hon-est-ly|
B1
🇺🇸
/ˈɑː.nɪst.li/
🇬🇧
/ˈɒn.ɪst.li/
(honest)
truthful and sincere
Etymology
Etymology Information
'honestly' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'honestly,' where 'honest' meant 'honorable or virtuous.'
Historical Evolution
'honestly' changed from the Middle English word 'honestly' and eventually became the modern English word 'honestly'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'in an honorable or virtuous manner,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'truthfully or sincerely.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a truthful, fair, or honorable way.
She answered all the questions honestly.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adverb 2
used to emphasize the truth of a statement.
Honestly, I didn't see him at the party.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35
