cordially
UK[ˈkɔː.di.ə.li]US[ˈkɔːr.dʒə.li]
adv
In a warm and friendly way.
adv
(Formal) Used in formal letters before a signature to mean 'sincerely'.
Morpheme Breakdown
cord
ial
ly
cord
heart
ial
adjective suffix
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
The word 'cordially' originates from the Latin cor, cordis, meaning 'heart'. This root passed into French as cordial, signifying 'of the heart' or 'heartfelt'. The English adjective 'cordial' was adopted to describe warm, sincere feelings emanating from the heart. By adding the adverbial suffix '-ly', the word 'cordially' was formed, transforming the heartfelt quality into a manner of action, thus describing behavior or expressions done with sincere warmth and friendliness.
Analysis
Structure: cord (heart) + ial (adjective suffix) + ly (adverb suffix)
- cord: From Latin cor, cordis (heart). Functions as the core root conveying the sense of 'heart'.
- ial: A suffix of Latin origin (-ialis) used to form adjectives meaning 'of or pertaining to'.
- ly: A suffix of Old English origin (-lice) used to form adverbs from adjectives.
Examples
He was cordially invited to the celebration.
The host greeted each guest cordially at the door.
The letter ended with "Yours cordially, [Signature]".