familiarly

adverb

fa·​mil·​iar·​ly
Synonyms of familiarlynext
1
: in a familiar manner: such as
a
: intimately
he was widely known to many but familiarly acquainted with few
b
: commonly
the frankfurter is familiarly called a hot dog
c
: informally
hailed him familiarly by his nickname
d
: presumptuously
pinched her cheek familiarly when they were introduced
2
: without shyness or fear : boldy
the phoebe bird … comes familiarly about the houseJohn Burroughs

Word History

Etymology

Middle English familierly, from familier, adjective + -ly

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Familiarly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/familiarly. Accessed 13 Dec. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on familiarly

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!