manifestly
UK[ˈmæn.ɪ.fɛst.li]US[ˈmæn.ə.fɛst.li]
adv
In a way that is clear or obvious to see or understand.
Morpheme Breakdown
manifest
ly
manifest
clear
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
The adverb "manifestly" is built upon the adjective "manifest," which entered English from Latin manifestus, meaning "caught in the act" or "palpable." The Latin term is thought to be a compound of manus (hand) and the root -festus (related to striking), suggesting the tangible, graspable quality of something evident. Over time, the sense evolved from the physical act of being caught red-handed to the more abstract quality of being plainly apparent or undeniable. The addition of the Old English adverbial suffix "-ly" completes the word, creating a term that formally describes an action performed in an obvious and unmistakable manner.
Analysis
Structure: manifest (clear) + ly (adverb suffix)
- manifest: From Latin manifestus (caught in the act, palpable, evident), likely from manus (hand) + -festus (struck, as in infestus). In this word, it functions as the adjectival root meaning "clearly revealed."
- ly: From Old English -līce (forming adverbs from adjectives), from Proto-Germanic -līkō. In this word, it functions as a suffix forming an adverb meaning "in a manner of."
Examples
The plan was manifestly unfair to the majority of participants.
He was manifestly unsuited for a role that required such delicate diplomacy.
The evidence presented made it manifestly clear who was responsible.