safely
UK: ˈseɪfli | US: ˈseɪfli
adv. in a manner free from harm or risk
adv. with certainty or assurance
The word "safely" derives from the Old French "sauf" (meaning "unharmed") and the Latin "salvus" (meaning "whole, safe"). The suffix "-ly" is a productive adverbial suffix in English, originating from Old English "-lice," which was used to form adverbs from adjectives. Over time, "safe" evolved to mean "free from danger," and the addition of "-ly" extended its function to describe the manner of an action. The logical progression reflects the transition from a state of safety to the adverbial form describing how an action is performed securely.
The children crossed the street safely with the help of a crossing guard.
The package arrived safely despite the stormy weather.
She drove safely to avoid accidents on the icy road.
The pilot landed the plane safely after encountering turbulence.
Make sure to store chemicals safely to prevent accidents.