faintly
UK: ˈfeɪntli | US: ˈfeɪntli
adv. in a faint manner; weakly or indistinctly
adv. slightly or timidly
The word "faintly" derives from the Old French faint (weak, cowardly), which itself comes from the Latin fingere (to pretend, feign). Over time, "faint" evolved in Middle English to mean "lacking strength or clarity." The suffix -ly is a common adverbial ending in English, turning adjectives into adverbs. Thus, "faintly" literally means "in a weak or indistinct manner," reflecting its roots in feigned or diminished intensity.
The stars shone faintly in the cloudy night sky.
She smiled faintly, barely showing her happiness.
The sound of distant music could be heard faintly through the walls.
He spoke faintly, as if exhausted from the effort.
The scent of flowers lingered faintly in the room.