Pronunciation: /sɔftli/

Definitions of softly

adjective Having a pleasingly gentle or quiet nature

Example Sentences

A1 She spoke softly to the baby to help them fall asleep.

A2 The cat's fur was soft and fluffy to the touch.

B1 The music played softly in the background as they danced.

B2 The sunlight filtered softly through the curtains, creating a warm glow in the room.

C1 The artist gently brushed the paint onto the canvas, creating a softly blended effect.

C2 The fabric of the dress was so soft, it felt like a gentle caress against her skin.

adverb In a gentle or quiet manner

Example Sentences

A1 She spoke softly to the baby to help them fall asleep.

A2 The cat purred softly as it curled up on the blanket.

B1 He knocked softly on the door so as not to disturb anyone.

B2 The music played softly in the background as they danced together.

C1 The artist painted softly, blending colors with precision and care.

C2 The wind whispered softly through the trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Examples of softly in a Sentence

formal The professor spoke softly as he explained the complex theory to the students.

informal She whispered softly to her friend so no one else could hear.

slang He mumbled softly under his breath so his mom wouldn't hear him cursing.

figurative The music played softly in the background, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Grammatical Forms of softly

past tense

softened

plural

softlies

comparative

softer

superlative

softest

present tense

softens

future tense

will soften

perfect tense

have softened

continuous tense

is softening

singular

softly

positive degree

soft

infinitive

to soften

gerund

softening

participle

softened

Origin and Evolution of softly

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old English
Story behind the word: The word 'softly' originated from the Old English word 'sōfte' which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'samftijaz'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'softly' has retained its original meaning of gentle or without harshness, but has also come to be used in a figurative sense to describe actions or sounds that are quiet or subdued.