SOFTLY Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

softly

adverb

Definition of softly

as in quietly

Related Words

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Dissimilar Words

as in lightly

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of softly In the dry-down, tonka bean tempers the citrus with a creamy, softly gourmand quality that contrasts with the bright opening. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 3 Sep. 2026 Birds chirp softly from the surrounding fall foliage, seemingly hesitant to disturb the peace. — Julia Sayers Gokhale, Midwest Living, 2 Sep. 2026 DeLuca then chopped a ball softly to the left side that shortstop Xander Bogaerts ran in to grab. — Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026 The first was pulled off on July 10 by the first stage of a Long March 10B rocket, which nestled softly into a net-like apparatus installed on a ship at sea. — Mike Wall, Space.com, 28 Aug. 2026 In the social media post, the 90-year-old enthusiastically cuddles the pup and pets her softly. — Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 27 Aug. 2026 His burst was impressive, as was his ability to fly at the rim and put the ball softly off the glass. — Cj Moore, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 In the meantime, a light powder like Milani Stay Put Brow Color can softly fill in gaps. — Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026 Milli softly shifts into apero mode, and buzzy coffee drinks are replaced with cool-kid natural wines, available by the glass or bottle. — The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for softly

Adverb

After seven years together, Zuckerman proposed quietly at home following a lake house trip for Montgomery’s 30th birthday — with a little help from one of his future husband’s favorite video games.

— Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026
The end result hovers sensitively between prison and hotel—with a visit offering rare insight into the design and workings of the historic institution, tempered with a comfortable and quietly luxurious stay.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Sep. 2026

Definition of quietly

Adverb

There is more than a nod to classical Greek tragedy here, and the film — a contemporary tale of dysfunctional parent-child relationships with escalatingly brutal consequences — doesn’t wear it lightly.

— Guy Lodge, Variety, 30 Aug. 2026
Brush chicken lightly with more glaze and garnish with scallions.

— ABC News, ABC News, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of lightly

Adverb

The classic profile is gently supportive for back and stomach sleepers, while the contoured option offers enhanced comfort and support for side and back sleepers.

— V BRAND STORIES, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026
As the pancake cooks, gently press the cream towards the cake so it will be absorbed.

— Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of gently

Adverb

The first portion of Psalm 23 describes God as a shepherd who protects, tenderly cares for, and leads his people, even in the darkest of times.

— Frannie Comstock, Encyclopedia Britannica, 26 Aug. 2026
Panettiere tenderly conveys the turmoil of being a kid who’s just trying to keep it together in the face of unthinkable circumstances.

— Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of tenderly

Adverb

Small branches can be clipped quickly and almost noiselessly and fashioned into an effective blind in only a few minutes.

— Bruce Brady, Outdoor Life, 8 Apr. 2026
On a brilliant midsummer morning, my wife and I stepped into a black Zodiac raft and drifted noiselessly among icebergs five stories high, their emerald and aquamarine walls gleaming above sapphire waters.

— Pico Iyer, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Apr. 2025

Definition of noiselessly

Browse Nearby Words

softies

softly

softness

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“Softly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/softly. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of softly

adverb

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