generously
UK[ˈdʒenrəsli]US[ˈdʒenərəsli]
adv
In a way that shows a readiness to give more of something, especially money, than is strictly necessary or expected.
adv
In a way that shows kindness, understanding, and a willingness to forgive.
adv
In large or plentiful amounts; liberally.
Morpheme Breakdown
gener
ous
ly
gener
birth, kind
ous
adjective suffix
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
The adverb 'generously' is built upon the adjective 'generous', which entered English in the 16th century from the Latin generosus, meaning "of noble birth, excellent, magnanimous". The Latin root is genus, meaning "birth, race, kind", which traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root gene-, meaning "to give birth, beget". The original sense of nobility by birth evolved metaphorically to describe the noble character traits associated with a good lineage, specifically a readiness to give or share. The suffix '-ly' then transforms this descriptive quality into a manner of action. Thus, the word's logic moves from the concrete idea of noble birth to the abstract qualities of magnanimity and abundance.
Analysis
Structure: gener (birth, kind) + ous (adjective suffix) + ly (adverb suffix)
- gener: From Latin genus (birth, race, kind). It denotes the root concept of origin, family, or type.
- ous: A suffix of Latin origin (-osus) used to form adjectives meaning "full of" or "characterized by" a quality.
- ly: A suffix of Old English origin (-lice) used to form adverbs from adjectives, meaning "in a manner of".
Examples
She generously donated a large portion of her inheritance to charity.
He generously offered to help his competitor, showing great sportsmanship.
Sprinkle the herbs generously over the roasted vegetables before serving.