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Definition of charily
charily
/ˈtʃɛr.ɪ.li/
char · i · ly
Adjective:chary
charily Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
13
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
Syllables
3
charily Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adverb
1
In a cautious, wary, or suspiciously reluctant manner.
Example
"The investors approached the volatile new market charily, unwilling to risk their capital without solid guarantees."
2
In a sparing, frugal, or stingy manner; without extravagance.
Example
"The veteran critic dispensed praise charily, reserving her highest compliments for truly groundbreaking performances."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for charily Antonyms
View all antonyms for charilyWord Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'charily' (cautiously, from the adjective 'chary') with 'cheerily' (cheerfully, from 'cheery').
• Rhymes for charily
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from the adjective 'chary' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. 'Chary' comes from Old English 'cearig', meaning 'sorrowful, anxious, or careful', from 'cearu' (care, sorrow).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Charily. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/charily