Word Adverb
faintly
adv.
manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈfeɪntɫi/ UK /fˈeɪntli/ faint·ly
Definition
adv.in a way that is not strong or clear. You use this to describe things you can only just see, hear, or feel.
adv.to a slight degree; in a manner that is barely perceptible or lacking in intensity.
Examples
“I could faintly hear music playing next door.”
“The old map was so worn that the names of the cities were only faintly visible under the lamp.”
“She smiled faintly at the memory, though a trace of sadness remained in her eyes as she turned back to her work.”
Usage
Often modifies adjectives related to the senses, such as 'visible', 'audible', or 'scented'.
Etymology
From Middle English feintli, feintliche, equivalent to faint + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
This entry
Origin Middle English feintli
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated