LIGHTLY Synonyms: 55 Similar and Opposite Words

lightly

adverb

ˈlīt-lē

Definition of lightly

as in easily

without difficulty you're not going to get off lightly if they catch you!

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of lightly Once a seasonal delicacy, Jimmy’s sources squash blossoms ($25) year-round, stuffs them with ricotta and Parmigiano-Reggiano and lightly batters and fries them. — Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 25 Sep. 2026 The report only lightly addressed cameras used to enforce red lights and speeding. — Mark Pazniokas, Hartford Courant, 25 Sep. 2026 Remove half of meat from marinade, letting excess drip back into bag; season lightly with kosher salt and sear in a single layer, undisturbed, until lightly browned underneath, about 1 minute. — Chris Morocco, Bon Appetit Magazine, 25 Sep. 2026 Cornbread is done when the edges start to pull away from the pan, the top is lightly browned, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (though a few crumbs are okay). — Martha Stewart, 24 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lightly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for lightly

Adverb

Eventually, the water will form into distinct beads that glide easily around the pan.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026
Its website describes virtual events, group chats and online discussions for members who live in smaller communities, prefer remote participation or cannot easily attend local activities.

— Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of easily

Adverb

Security checks on the stadium's perimeter went relatively smoothly with Tennessee officials opening the stadium 30 minutes earlier than normal.

— ABC News, ABC News, 26 Sep. 2026
Security checks on the stadium’s perimeter went relatively smoothly with Tennessee officials opening the stadium 30 minutes earlier than normal.

— Jim Vertuno, Fortune, 26 Sep. 2026

Definition of smoothly

Adverb

Guides, travel hosts, crew members, chefs, specialists, and partners form an extraordinary team around the guests, sharing their knowledge, anticipating needs, and quietly ensuring that the journey unfolds effortlessly.

— Guy Bigiaoui, Miami Herald, 28 Sep. 2026
Plus, its space-saving footprint fits effortlessly onto crowded home office desks or tight shelf spaces.

— Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 28 Sep. 2026

Definition of effortlessly

Adverb

With little or no string tension, the charge spread freely through the chain.

— Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 27 Sep. 2026
It’s been yo-yoing on uncertainty about when the war with Iran will allow oil to flow freely again from the Middle East.

— Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of freely

Adverb

For example, there is a push to require data centers to use battery storage for backup power instead of diesel generators, which can use energy more efficiently and do not directly produce air pollution.

— Anna Zarra Aldrich, Hartford Courant, 25 Sep. 2026
The future of work is not fewer people doing the same things more efficiently.

— Ali Alkhafaji, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of efficiently

Adverb

Officers noted no readily accessible food or water for the animal.

— Anna McAllister, Miami Herald, 29 Sep. 2026
When the frame is filled with white skies and snow, the picture can look dim compared with other shots, though highlight details like wisps of clouds and falling snowflakes against all that white can be readily seen.

— Will Greenwald, PC Magazine, 28 Sep. 2026

Definition of readily

Browse Nearby Words

lightless

lightly

light-minded

See all Nearby Words

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“Lightly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lightly. Accessed 2 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of lightly

adverb

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