1
: to some degree or extent but not very or extremely : to a reasonable or moderate extent
a fairly easy job
It's still fairly early.
a fairly simple procedure
It's a fairly common disease.
2
: in a way that is right or proper : in a fair way
She treats everyone fairly.
I told the story as fairly as possible.
He reports fairly on the issues.
He beat me fairly and squarely.
3
—used for emphasis before a verb that is being used figuratively
The situation fairly screamed for someone to intervene.
4
literary + old-fashioned
: in a favorable or pleasing way
a town fairly situated on a hill
Cite this Entry
“Fairly.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/fairly. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.
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