# lowly

/ˈɫoʊɫi/ (US) · /lˈəʊli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lowly
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

having a low rank or a very simple position in society. It describes someone or something that is not powerful, rich, or important.

For teachers: occupying a humble or low position in a hierarchy; lacking in status, importance, or rank.

## Examples

- He started his career as a lowly clerk in the mailroom.
- Even the most lowly tasks in the kitchen are essential for the restaurant to run smoothly.
- The novel explores the life of a lowly stable hand who eventually rises to become a respected advisor to the king through sheer perseverance.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He spoke lowly to the group" but "He spoke quietly to the group" — Lowly is an adjective meaning humble; it is not the adverbial form of 'low' used for volume or physical height.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun to emphasize a lack of status.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.