highly

adverb

high·​ly ˈhī-lē 

1

: in or to a high place, level, or rank

2

: in or to a high degree or amount

3

: with approval : favorably

Synonyms of highly

• extremely
• very
• incredibly
• terribly
• too
• so
• badly
• severely
• really
• damn
• damned
• intensely
• heavily
• seriously
• most

Examples of highly in a Sentence

She is one of the most highly respected journalists in the country.

though she didn't win, she was highly satisfied with her personal results for the marathon

Recent Examples on the Web

Again, dinner reservations are highly sought-after, but weekend brunch is also an option. — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 23 Oct. 2026

In this case, a neighborhood once known by a pejorative eventually becomes highly desirable to those seeking more affordable housing close to Philadelphia. — Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026

Orion had been completing a highly elliptical orbit around Earth, giving the crew and mission control an opportunity to test the capsule's systems before committing to the journey to the moon. — Daisy Dobrijevic, Space.com, 22 Oct. 2026

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the inside lining of the gastrointestinal tract. — ABC News, 22 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing highly

• highly strung
• highly superior autobiographical memory

Rhymes for highly

• dryly
• kiley
• shyly
• slyly
• smiley
• wily
• wryly

Kids Definition

highly

adverb

high·​ly ˈhī-lē 

1

: very entry 2 sense 1, extremely

highly pleased

2

: with approval

speaks highly of you