completely

UK: kəmˈpliːtli | US: kəmˈpliːtli

Definition

  1. adv. in every way or as much as possible; wholly

  2. adv. used for emphasis to express totality or extremity

Structure
complete <whole, from Latin *completus*>ly <adverb suffix, from Old English *-lice*>
Etymology

The word "completely" stems from the Latin completus (past participle of complēre, meaning "to fill up or finish"), combined with the Old English adverbial suffix -ly. The root complete implies fullness or perfection, while -ly transforms it into an adverb. Over time, "completely" evolved to emphasize totality, reflecting the idea of leaving nothing unfinished or lacking.

Examples

  1. The project was completely finished ahead of schedule.

  2. She completely forgot about the meeting.

  3. The room was completely silent.

  4. He completely misunderstood the instructions.

  5. The storm completely destroyed the old bridge.