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.
In May, Kennedy sent a letter to health systems across the US, telling them that care of trans children should rely on a highly critical and controversial review of the science that Trump had ordered. Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 21 July 2025 What other body traits attract mosquitoes? Body odor and sweat Mosquitoes are highly sensitive to body odor, particularly to compounds like lactic acid, ammonia and uric acid found in sweat, according to a post by Our Blood Institute. Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 21 July 2025 The Del Mar Foundation has partnered with the City of Del Mar to bring five contemporary sculptures to highly visible locations in Del Mar’s downtown area for a temporary outdoor sculpture exhibit, scheduled to be a 23-month display. News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 July 2025 For better or worse, especially when trying to do scientific research, cats are highly variable creatures with lots of quirks and unique personalities, said Valeska. Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 20 July 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 24 Jul. 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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