Meaning & Definition
adverb
For the most part; mainly or primarily.
The conference attendees were mostly from the tech industry.
To a large extent; not entirely.
She is mostly happy with her new job, but there are some challenges.
In a way that is typical; generally.
The weather here is mostly mild during the spring.
Predominantly; more than anything else.
He mostly reads fiction but sometimes enjoys biographies.
Etymology
Middle English; from most + -ly
Common Phrases and Expressions
mostly harmless:
Generally considered not to be a threat.
mostly for the sake of:
Primarily done for the purpose of.
mostly true:
Largely accurate but with some exceptions.
Slang Meanings
Mostly chill
I'm mostly chill with the plans for the weekend.
Mostly down
I'm mostly down to go to the concert.