gainly

1 of 2

adverb

gain·​ly

ˈgānlē,

-li

-er/-est

1

chiefly dialectal : very, completely

2

chiefly dialectal : nearby, handily

the birds singing gainly that came at my call

—J. H. Payne

gainly

2 of 2

adjective

"

1

chiefly dialectal : suitable, becoming

a gainly word

2

: graceful and generally pleasing

gainly conduct

a gainly youth with dark hair and eyes

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

gain entry 1 + -ly

Adjective

gain entry 1 + -ly

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