relentlessly
UK[rɪˈlentləsli]US[rɪˈlentləsli]
adv
in a strict, harsh, or determined way that never becomes less
adv
continuing in a severe or extreme way that does not stop or become less
Morpheme Breakdown
relent
less
ly
relent
verb base
less
adjective suffix
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
the word 'relentlessly' is built upon the verb 'relent', which originates from the latin 're-' (again) and 'lentare' (to bend), conveying the idea of softening or yielding. the addition of the old english suffix '-less' transforms it into an adjective meaning 'without yielding' or 'unyielding'. finally, the adverbial suffix '-ly' converts this quality into a manner of action. thus, the etymological journey moves from the literal concept of bending again to the modern abstract sense of continuing without softening or stopping.
Analysis
Structure: relent (verb base) + less (adjective suffix) + ly (adverb suffix)
relent (from latin 're-' + 'lentare', meaning 'to bend, make flexible'); less (from old english '-lēas', an adjective-forming suffix meaning 'without, free from'); ly (from old english '-līce', an adverb-forming suffix)
Examples
the sun beat down relentlessly on the desert travelers.
she has pursued her goals relentlessly, despite numerous obstacles.
the investigation into the corruption scandal continued relentlessly for years.