richly
UK: ˈrɪtʃli | US: ˈrɪtʃli
adv. in a rich or abundant manner
adv. with elaborate or ornate detail
adv. fully or thoroughly
The word "richly" combines the adjective "rich," derived from Old English rīċe (powerful, wealthy), with the adverbial suffix "-ly," from Old English -līċe. "Rich" originally referred to power or nobility (linked to Proto-Germanic rīkijaz and Proto-Indo-European reg-, meaning "to rule"). Over time, its meaning expanded to denote material abundance. The suffix "-ly" systematically converts adjectives into adverbs, preserving the core meaning while modifying grammatical function. Thus, "richly" inherits the semantic depth of "rich," emphasizing manner or degree.
The king was richly dressed in velvet and gold.
The novel is richly detailed, bringing the historical era to life.
She praised him richly for his generosity.
The soil is richly fertile, ideal for farming.
The dessert was richly flavored with vanilla and spices.