lately
UK: ˈleɪtli | US: ˈleɪtli
adv. in the recent past; not long ago
adv. (archaic) slowly or tardily
The word "lately" combines the adjective "late" (from Old English læt, meaning "slow" or "delayed") with the adverbial suffix "-ly" (from Old English -lice, used to form adverbs). Originally, "late" referred to slowness or tardiness, but by the 13th century, it evolved to mean "occurring near the end of a period." The suffix "-ly" systematically converts adjectives into adverbs, giving "lately" its modern sense of "recently." The archaic meaning ("slowly") reflects its older roots, while the contemporary usage emphasizes temporal proximity.
Have you seen her lately?
Lately, I've been feeling more energetic.
He hasn't called lately, which is unusual.
The weather has been unpredictable lately.
She only started working here lately.