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Definition of fondly

fondly

/ˈfɑːnd.li/
fond · ly
Adjective:fond
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fondly Lexical Profile

fondly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a warm, tender, or affectionate manner.

Example

"She smiled fondly at her grandchildren as they played in the garden."

2

In a naive, overly optimistic, or credulous manner.

Example

"He fondly imagined that his old friends would drop everything to help him."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for fondly

• Nearby Words

fond
fondant
fondle
fondly
fondness
fondue
font

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'fond' (originally the past participle of 'fonnen', meaning to be foolish or infatuated) and the adverbial suffix '-ly'. Over the centuries, its primary sense shifted from foolish credulity to warm, tender affection.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Fondly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/fondly
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