Idly

/ˈaɪd.li/

Meaning & Definition

adverb

In a lazy or inactive manner; without any particular purpose or effort.

He sat idly by while the meeting continued without him.

In a carefree or relaxed state; not doing anything productive.

She idly watched the clouds drift by in the sky.

Without concern or worry; simply existing.

The cat lay idly in the sun, enjoying its nap.

In a way that suggests a lack of urgency or interest.

They idly discussed their plans for the weekend.

In a manner that indicates inactivity or passivity.

He idly flipped through the channels, not really focusing on anything.

From the adjective 'idle', meaning inactive or lazy, combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

idly by:

In a passive or inactive manner, without intervening.

Chilling or relaxing in a way that avoids productivity.

I was just idly chilling at home all weekend.