badly

bad-ly · adverb

imported

Definitions

adverb

  1. 1.

    In an unsatisfactory, inadequate, or unsuccessful way.

  2. 2.

    To a great or serious degree; severely.

  3. 3.

    Very much; greatly (expressing strong desire or need).

  4. 4.

    In a guilty, wrong, or wicked manner.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    badly off — In a poor situation, especially financially.
  • •
    go badly — To turn out poorly.
  • •
    need badly — To need very much.
  • •
    badly hurt — Seriously injured.

Related words

Antonyms: excellently, well
See also: bad, poorly, severely, terribly
Synonyms: awfully, poorly, seriously, terribly

Etymology

From Old English bædlice, from bæddel ("effeminate man, hermaphrodite") + -lice (adverb suffix). The modern meaning developed from Middle English.