highly

adverb

high·​ly ˈhī-lē How to pronounce highly (audio)
1
: in or to a high place, level, or rank
2
: in or to a high degree or amount
3
: with approval : favorably

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Species: The most valuable trees are hardy, durable, highly adaptable and won’t drop debris like nuts or pods everywhere. Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 22 May 2025 Specialized Technologies, Equipment And Engineering Solutions Project Cargo demands the use of highly specialized equipment, selected and configured based on detailed engineering assessments. Umberto Cavallaro, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025 Luggage is highly restricted and landing on the minuscule runway requires special training. Christopher Cameron, Robb Report, 22 May 2025 Biel isn’t the only big name to audition for the highly coveted part. Rachel McRady, People.com, 22 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for highly

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of highly was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Highly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/highly. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

highly

adverb
high·​ly ˈhī-lē How to pronounce highly (audio)
1
: very entry 2 sense 1, extremely
highly pleased
2
: with approval
speaks highly of you

More from Merriam-Webster on highly

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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