softly
/ˈsɔftli/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: softlier · softliest
Sense 1
Meaning · English
In a soft manner; gently.
Adverb
Examples
The masseuse was rubbing my back too softly for my liking, so I asked her to go harder.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
Not loudly; nearly inaudibly.
Adverb
Examples
whisper softly in someone's ear
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “softly” mean?
In a soft manner; gently.
Is “softly” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.