Handily

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a manner that is easy and convenient, often suggesting skillfulness or finesse, while also indicating a certain degree of readiness or preparedness
2. With effortless efficiency and ease, implying both proficiency in execution and suitability for a task or situation
3. Done in a way that showcases adeptness and simplicity, indicating a readiness to tackle challenges and achieve results smoothly

Etymology: "Handily" is a straightforward formation: the adjective "handy" with the adverb-forming suffix "-ly" attached. "Handy" itself goes back to the idea of something being close at hand, ready to be grasped, so an action done handily is done as if the means were within easy reach. The more curious detail is the older form. Middle English had "hendily" and "hendiliche", where the spelling and sound were closer to "hend", an adjective meaning courteous, skilled, or nimble, and it is from that older sense of dexterity and grace that the modern meaning of effortlessness comes. The spelling shifted over the centuries, and the "d" in "handy" was influenced by the word "hand" rather than by the older "hend".

Synonyms: easily, readily, conveniently, efficiently, skillfully

Antonyms: difficultly, hardly, awkwardly, clumsily