Barely

/ˈbɛərli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb

By a very small amount; almost not.

She barely passed the exam, scoring just above the minimum requirement.

In a way that is difficult to distinguish or perceive.

He could barely see the path ahead due to the heavy fog.

Only just; hardly.

They barely had enough time to catch their flight.

Stripped of all but the essential; minimal.

The room was barely furnished, with only a chair and a table.

Middle English, from bare + -ly

barely there

Existing in only a minimal amount or degree.

barely alive

In a very weak or feeble condition, almost dead.

bare

Without covering or clothing; exposed.

bare minimum

The least possible amount or degree.

Barely managing

I'm barely managing to get through this week.

Barely making it

I’m barely making it through this semester.