What does "evenly" mean?

1. (equal distribution) in a way that gives the same amount or space to everyone or everything. 2. (flat or smooth) in a way that makes a surface flat or smooth. 3. (calmly) in a calm and steady way, especially when speaking. 4. (divisible by two) in a way that can be divided by the number two without any remainder.

How do you use "evenly"?

Usually follows the verb 'divide'.

evenly

adv.

US //ˈivənɫi// UK //ˈiːvənli// even·ly

1 equal distribution (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

in a way that gives the same amount or space to everyone or everything.

in a uniform manner of distribution, ensuring equal proportions or quantities across a set.

Example

Make sure you spread the sauce evenly over the pizza base.

Example

The inheritance was divided evenly among the three siblings to avoid any potential for family conflict or resentment.
- equally
- uniformly
- unevenly
- disproportionately
2 flat or smooth (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

in a way that makes a surface flat or smooth.

in a manner that creates a level, smooth, or horizontal surface without bumps.

Example

The gardener raked the soil evenly before planting the new seeds.

Example

The carpenter sanded the tabletop until the wood felt perfectly smooth and the light reflected evenly across its surface.
- levelly
- smoothly
- roughly
- irregularly

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3 calmly (adv.)
C1 Advanced Literary

in a calm and steady way, especially when speaking.

in a steady, balanced, or composed manner, often referring to the tone of voice or breathing.

Example

She breathed evenly to stay calm during the difficult interview.

Example

Despite the provocative nature of the questioning, the diplomat replied evenly, refusing to let his frustration show through his voice.
- steadily
- calmly
- shakily
- erratically
4 divisible by two (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Math

in a way that can be divided by the number two without any remainder.

describing a mathematical division that results in a whole number when divided by two.

Example

The number ten can be divided evenly by two.

Example

In this equation, the total must be divisible evenly by two for the subsequent logic to hold true.

Usage

Usually follows the verb 'divide'.

Origin

From Middle English evenly, evenliche, from Old English efenlīċe (“evenly, alike, equally”), equivalent to even + -ly.