Agilely

Part of speech: adverb

Pronunciation: /ˈæd͡ʒ.aɪl.li/

Definitions

1. In a manner characterized by quickness and ease, displaying nimbleness alongside responsiveness and adaptability in various situations
2. Showing both dexterity and swiftness, exhibiting an ability to move quickly while remaining flexible to changing conditions or tasks
3. Demonstrating a combination of speed and grace, effectively navigating challenges with lightness and a readiness to adjust as needed

Etymology: "Agilely" is simply the adverb of "agile" with the suffix "-ly" added, so its history is the history of that suffix. The adjective "agile" came into English from Latin "agilis", meaning "quick-moving" or "nimble", ultimately from the Latin verb "agere", "to drive, do, or set in motion". The adverbial ending traces back much further, to an ancient Germanic element meaning "having the form or appearance of", which is the same source that gave English "like" its adjective sense. That ending was once a full word in its own right. In Old English it appeared as "-līce", and over the Middle English period it wore down to "-ly", the form we use today. Adding "-ly" to an adjective turns it into a description of how an action is done, so "agilely" means "in an agile manner", describing movement that is both quick and adaptable.

Synonyms: quickly, nimbly, gracefully

Antonyms: clumsily, awkwardly