cordially
Meaning
In a warm and friendly way.
(Formal) Used in formal letters before a signature to mean 'sincerely'.
Structure
Usage
He was cordially invited to the celebration.
The host greeted each guest cordially at the door.
The letter ended with "Yours cordially, [Signature]".
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
- 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.