Lightly

Part of speech: adverb

Pronunciation: /ˈlaɪtli/

Definitions

1. In a gentle manner or to a small degree; without much weight, force, or intensity
2. Using minimal pressure or force when doing something ; acting in a soft and careful manner
3. Applying a small amount of strength or heaviness ; behaving with a tender or subtle touch

Etymology: Old English "lēohtlīċe" meant "nimbly" or "with agility," a sense that comes from the adjective "lēoht," the ancestor of modern "light" in its sense of "not heavy." The adverb therefore began life describing movement rather than touch: someone who moved lightly was quick, agile and unencumbered, and the notion of weight came along with the physical idea that a nimble body carries little burden. The word's later forms show it passing through Middle English as "lyghtly" and "liȝtliche," gradually shedding the sense of speed and settling on the idea of a small or gentle degree. From there it spread to figurative uses, so that one can treat a matter lightly, tap a surface lightly, or be lightly armed, each meaning less weight, force or intensity than expected.

Synonyms: gently, softly, carefully, easily, slightly

Antonyms: heavily, harshly, roughly, strongly, severely