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Definition of honestly

honestly

/ˈɑːnɪstli/
hon · est · ly
Adjective:honest
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honestly Lexical Profile

honestly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a truthful, fair, or honorable manner, without deceit or fraud.

Example

"The company built its reputation by dealing honestly with all of its clients and suppliers."

2

Used as a sentence modifier to emphasize the sincerity, frankness, or truth of a statement, even if it sounds surprising.

Example

"Honestly, I had no idea that the deadline had been moved up to this Friday."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• interjection

1

Used to express mild annoyance, disbelief, exasperation, or dismay at someone's behavior or a situation.

Example

"Honestly! You left your wet towels on the wooden floor again."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for honestly

• Rhymes for honestly

• Nearby Words

honduras
hone
honest
honestly
honestness
honesty
honey

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from 'honest' (via Old French from Latin 'honestus', meaning 'honorable' or 'deserving of respect') plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

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