Squaredly

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. With directness and firmness, facing something head-on without evasion or ambiguity
2. In a manner that is straight and unapologetic, addressing issues with clarity and intent while avoiding any semblance of ambiguity or hesitation
3. Characterized by a forthright and resolute approach, confronting matters directly without any avoidance or vagueness

Etymology: "Squaredly" is a plain formation: the adjective "squared," meaning made square or set at right angles, with the adverbial suffix "-ly" added to it. The suffix turns the adjective's sense of squareness into a manner of acting, so the word describes doing something in a straight, unhedged way. The adjective "squared" itself comes from "square," which in English traces back to Old French "esquarre" and, further, to Latin "exquadrare," meaning to make square. Its literal sense of right angles and equal sides is the root from which the figurative idea of being fair, direct, or settled grew, and "squaredly" carries that figurative sense into adverbial use.