English Explanatory Dictionary

nearly

English dictionary entry

Meanings

adv
  1. In close approximation; almost, virtually.
  2. With great scrutiny; carefully.
  3. With close relation; intimately.
  4. Closely, in close proximity.
  5. Stingily.

Pronunciation

/ˈnɪəli/ /ˈnɪːlɪj/ /ˈnɪɹli/ en-us-nearly.ogg /ˈniəli/ /ˈniɾle/ /-lɪ/ /-li/ /ˈnɛːli/

Word forms

nearly nearlier more nearly nearliest most nearly nerely nerly neerely nearely

Etymology

From near + -ly. Cognate with Scots nerelie, neirlie (“nearly”). Compare also English nearling, nearlings.

Synonyms

almost nigh well-nigh near close to next to practically virtually environ

Derived words

nearliness nearly-dead nearly fall off one's chair nearly man nearlyness nearly never bulled a cow nearly never won the race nearlywed
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