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- The earliest known use of the adjective goodly is in the Old English period (pre-1150). goodly is a word inherited from Germanic.
Sep 28, 2017 · Meaning "the good side" (of something) is from 1660s. Phrase for good "finally, permanently" attested from 1711, a shortening of for good and all (16c.). Middle English had for good ne ylle (early 15c.) "for good nor ill," thus "under any circumstance."
It may come as a surprise, then, that the word “goodly” also exists in English and was quite common in the past (but it does not mean the same as “well”). “Goodly” is an adjective, not an adverb, and has two different meanings, both of which are rather formal or archaic.
Origin & history I. From Middle English goodly, goodlich, gōdlich, from Old English gōdlīċ ("good, goodly"), from Proto-Germanic *gōdalīkaz ("good, goodly"), equivalent to good + -ly. Cognate with German gütlich ("friendly"), Icelandic góðlegur ("benign").
GOOD'LY, adjective Being of a handsome form; beautiful; graceful; as a goodly person; goodly raiment; goodly houses. 1. Pleasant; agreeable; desirable; as goodly days. 2. Bulky; swelling; affectedly turgid. Websters Dictionary 1828 – Online Edition is an excellent reference for classical literature and Bible studies.
The term “goodly” may appear uncommon in modern English, but it holds a significant presence in historical texts and literature. Here’s an in-depth look at the word, its usage, and implications.
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A complete guide to the word "GOODLY": definitions, pronunciations, synonyms, grammar insights, collocations, examples, and translations.
