highly

high-ly · adverb

imported

Definitions

adverb

  1. 1.

    To a great degree; very much.

  2. 2.

    In or to a high position or level.

  3. 3.

    With great approval or admiration.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    highly likely — very probable
  • •
    highly regarded — greatly respected
  • •
    highly unlikely — very improbable
  • •
    think highly of — to have great respect for
  • •
    speak highly of — to praise

Related words

Antonyms: barely, poorly, slightly
See also: extremely, greatly, high, very
Synonyms: exceptionally, extremely, greatly, very

Etymology

From Old English hēahlīce ("nobly, excellently"), from hēah ("high") + -līce (adverb suffix). The form has been consistent throughout English history.