calmly
UK: ˈkɑːmli | US: ˈkɑːmli
adv. in a quiet, peaceful, or untroubled manner
adv. without agitation or strong emotion
The word "calmly" derives from the adjective "calm," which entered Middle English from Old French calme, meaning "stillness" or "tranquility." The Old French term traces back to Latin cauma (heat, rest during the hottest part of the day), borrowed from Greek kauma (heat, especially midday heat when activities paused). Over time, "calm" evolved to denote emotional or environmental stillness. The suffix "-ly," of Old English origin (-līce), transforms adjectives into adverbs, preserving the core meaning while indicating manner. Thus, "calmly" logically extends "calm" to describe actions performed with tranquility.
She spoke calmly despite the chaos around her.
The river flowed calmly under the moonlight.
He breathed calmly to steady his nerves.
The teacher explained the problem calmly to the students.
The cat stretched calmly on the warm windowsill.