gladly
UK[ˈɡlædli]US[ˈɡlædli]
adv
in a willing and happy way
Morpheme Breakdown
glad
ly
glad
happy
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
the word 'gladly' is a straightforward formation from the adjective 'glad' with the adverbial suffix '-ly'. its core, 'glad', originates from old english 'glæd', which carried meanings of bright, shining, and cheerful. this sense of brightness and light metaphorically evolved to denote a state of happiness and pleasure. the addition of the productive old english suffix '-ly', used to form adverbs of manner, created 'gladlice', which has simplified to the modern 'gladly', meaning in a happy or willing manner.
Analysis
Structure: glad (happy) + ly (adverb suffix)
glad (old english, meaning bright, shining, cheerful, happy); ly (old english, adverbial suffix forming manner adverbs from adjectives).
Examples
she gladly accepted the invitation to speak at the conference.
i would gladly help you move this weekend if you need a hand.
he gladly shared his notes with the new student.