gravely
adv. manner B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɡɹeɪvɫi// UK //ɡɹˈeɪvli// grave·ly
adv. in a very serious or worried way. You use this when someone is speaking about a dangerous situation or when someone is very sick.
adv. in a serious or solemn manner; to a severe or life-threatening degree. Often modifies verbs of speaking or adjectives related to illness and injury.
The doctor looked at him gravely and shook his head.
The minister spoke gravely about the economic crisis, warning that difficult times were ahead for every citizen.
Although the patient was gravely ill upon arrival, the medical team remained cautiously optimistic that the new treatment protocol would stabilize his condition.
From grave + -ly.
See gravelly.
Usage
Typically placed after the verb it modifies or before an adjective describing a state of health.