innocently
UK: ˈɪnəsəntli | US: ˈɪnəsəntli
adv. in a manner free from guilt or wrongdoing
adv. without harmful intent; harmlessly
adv. with simplicity or naivety
The word "innocently" derives from the Latin "innocens," combining "in-" (not) + "nocens" (harming), meaning "not harming." The suffix "-ly" was added in Middle English to form the adverb. Over time, the term expanded from literal harmlessness to include connotations of purity and naivety, reflecting its current nuanced usage.
She smiled innocently when asked about the missing cookies.
The child spoke innocently, unaware of the tension in the room.
He claimed to have acted innocently, with no intention to deceive.
The joke was meant innocently but was taken the wrong way.
Birds chirped innocently in the morning light, undisturbed by human worries.