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Definition of smartly

smartly

/ˈsmɑːrt.li/
smart · ly
Adjective:smart
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smartly Lexical Profile

smartly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In an intelligent, clever, or astute manner.

Example

"The company invested smartly in renewable energy technologies before the market surged."

2

In a neat, stylish, and well-dressed manner.

Example

"All the hotel staff were smartly dressed in tailored navy uniforms."

3

In a quick, brisk, or vigorous manner.

Example

"The guard stepped smartly to the side and saluted as the dignitary passed."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for smartly

• Nearby Words

smarten
smartie
smartish
smartly
smartmouth
smartness
smartphone

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as smartly, from the adjective smart (from Old English smeart, originally meaning 'causing sharp pain') combined with the adverbial suffix -ly. Its sense shifted over centuries from 'painfully' to 'briskly' and eventually to 'intelligently' and 'stylishly'.

Cite this Entry

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