Meaning & Definition
adverb
In a gentle or slight manner; not heavily.
She placed her hand lightly on his shoulder.
Without much seriousness or concern; casually.
He took the news lightly, not wanting to worry anyone.
In a way that indicates little weight or burden.
The feather floated lightly to the ground.
With a minimal touch or impact.
He lightly brushed his fingers over the piano keys.
Without intensity or force.
She smiled lightly at the joke, not finding it very funny.
Etymology
Middle English 'lightli', from 'light' + '-ly' (adverbial suffix)
Common Phrases and Expressions
lightly armed:
Equipped with minimal weapons or defenses.
take it lightly:
To not take something seriously or to treat it with less severity.
lightly regarded:
Not taken seriously or of little importance.
dance lightly:
To dance in a graceful and effortless manner.
Slang Meanings
To take something easy; not to worry too much.
Just lightly, man, things will work out.
To do something without much effort.
He lightly checks his emails.