lowly
UK: ˈləʊli | US: ˈloʊli
adj. of humble rank or status; modest
adj. plain or simple in nature
adv. in a humble or meek manner
lowly = low<not high> + ly<adjective/adverb suffix>
- low: From Old English hlāw, meaning "not high" or "humble."
- ly: A suffix derived from Old English -līc, used to form adjectives or adverbs indicating a characteristic manner or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word lowly combines low, rooted in Old English with connotations of humility or lack of elevation, and the suffix -ly, which transforms it into an adjective or adverb. Over time, lowly evolved to describe both physical lowness (e.g., "lowly ground") and social humility (e.g., "lowly servant"), reflecting its dual emphasis on spatial and metaphorical modesty.
She accepted her lowly position without complaint.
The cottage was a lowly but cozy home.
He spoke lowly, almost in a whisper.
Despite his lowly origins, he rose to greatness.
The lowly mushroom thrives in shaded areas.