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lightly
Examples
She touched the baby 's head lightly.
He knocked lightly on the door, hoping not to wake anyone.
1.1
with a sense of airiness, grace, or delicate movement, like floating
Examples
The scarf drifted lightly to the floor.
The boat rocked lightly on the water.
02
to only a small degree or extent
Examples
The eggs were lightly browned on both sides.
He was lightly injured in the accident.
2.1
in a moderate or restrained way, especially when eating or drinking
Examples
He drank lightly at the party to keep clear-headed.
She eats lightly before exercising.
03
in a cheerful or uncomplaining manner
Examples
He accepted the delay lightly.
She bore the bad news lightly and smiled.
3.1
in a dismissive or unconcerned way
Examples
She spoke lightly of the risks involved.
He took his responsibilities lightly, which worried the team.
3.2
without serious thought or proper care, especially when not advised
Examples
Such promises should not be made lightly.
He did not enter the agreement lightly.
04
in a quick and agile manner
Examples
She danced lightly across the stage.
The cat lightly leaped onto the windowsill.
05
happening or achieved without difficulty or strain
Examples
He lightly let go of the past.
The money came lightly and was spent just as easily.
