mightily
UK[ˈmaɪtɪli]US[ˈmaɪtɪli]
adv
With great strength, power, or intensity.
adv
To a great extent; very much.
Morpheme Breakdown
might
i
ly
might
power
i
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
The word 'mightily' is built upon the Old English noun miht, meaning "power" or "strength," which itself descends from the Proto-Germanic root mahtiz. This root is further traced to the Proto-Indo-European base magh-, meaning "to be able, have power." The adjectival form 'mighty' emerged in Middle English, signifying "possessing might." The adverb 'mightily' was subsequently formed by appending the productive adverbial suffix '-ly' (from Old English -līce) to 'mighty,' with the connective 'i' easing pronunciation. Thus, the literal construction "in a manner of power" evolved to describe actions performed with great force, vigor, or to a very great degree.
Analysis
Structure: might (power) + i + ly (adverb suffix)
- might: From Old English miht, meaht (power, strength, ability). A Germanic root.
- i: A connective vowel, often used in forming adverbs from adjectives in Middle English.
- ly: From Old English -līce, an adverbial suffix meaning "in a manner of".
Examples
He struggled mightily to lift the heavy stone.
The team was mightily disappointed by their loss.
The wind blew mightily, shaking the windows of the old house.