deeply
UK: ˈdiːpli | US: ˈdiːpli
adv. to a great depth; profoundly
adv. intensely or strongly (emotionally)
The word "deeply" combines the Old English root "dēop" (meaning "extending far down" or "profound") with the adverbial suffix "-ly," which originates from Old English "-līce." The suffix "-ly" was historically used to form adverbs from adjectives, indicating manner or degree. Over time, "deeply" evolved to describe both physical depth (e.g., "diving deeply") and metaphorical intensity (e.g., "deeply moved"). The logic follows a straightforward progression from concrete spatial meaning to abstract emotional emphasis.
She breathed deeply to calm her nerves.
The submarine descended deeply into the ocean.
He was deeply affected by the news.
The roots of the tree grow deeply into the soil.
They discussed the issue deeply until midnight.