lightly

adverb

light·​ly ˈlīt-lē 

: in a light manner: such as

a

: with little weight or force : gently

b

: with indifference or carelessness : unconcernedly

… the problem should not be passed over lightly …

—Shelly Halpern

c

: with little difficulty : easily

d

: gaily, cheerfully

e

: in an agile manner : nimbly, swiftly

the cat leapt lightly onto the table

f

: in a small degree or amount

lightly salted food

Synonyms of lightly

• easily
• smoothly
• effortlessly
• easy
• freely
• efficiently
• readily

Examples of lightly in a Sentence

He talks lightly about the problems he's been having at work.

She moved lightly across the room.

These vegetables can be eaten either raw or lightly cooked.

Our troops were armed too lightly to take on the heavily armed invaders.

Considering the harm he did, he's gotten off lightly with only a warning.

The judge let her off lightly with a short sentence.

Recent Examples on the Web

The lightly textured waves, styled by Mara Roszak, made for the perfect canvas to show it off. —Marci Robin, Allure, 22 May 2026

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist the affected areas. —Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 22 May 2026

These accusations must not be taken lightly; duty requires they be fully investigated. —Maven Navarro, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 May 2026

The house silhouette embraces classic proportions and is characterized by a natural, lightly padded shoulder with gentle roping at the sleevehead. —Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 20 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing lightly

• take lightly
• tread lightly

Rhymes for lightly

• brightly
• knightly
• nightly
• rightly
• sightly
• slightly
• sprightly
• tightly
• whitely
• forthrightly
• fortnightly
• politely