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Definition of idly

idly

/ˈaɪd.li/
id · ly
Adjective:idle
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idly Lexical Profile

idly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

With no particular purpose, reason, or effort; casually or aimlessly.

Example

"She flipped idly through the pages of the magazine while waiting for her appointment."

2

In an inactive, lazy, or unproductive manner; without taking action.

Example

"The committee refused to stand idly by while the historic theater was demolished."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for idly

• Nearby Words

idle
idleness
idler
idly
idol
idolater
idolatry

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from Old English 'īdellīce', meaning 'vainly, uselessly, or trivially,' from the adjective 'īdel' (empty, void, or destitute) combined with the adverbial suffix '-līce'.

Cite this Entry

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