restlessly
UK[ˈrestləsli]US[ˈrestləsli]
adv
in a way that shows you are unable to stay still or be happy where you are, because you are bored or anxious
adv
in a way that shows you are not satisfied and want to do something new or different
Morpheme Breakdown
rest
less
ly
rest
rest
less
without
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
the word "restlessly" is built upon the old english noun "rest," which denotes a state of repose or tranquility. the suffix "-less," also of old english origin, is appended to create the adjective "restless," literally meaning "without rest" or "devoid of peace." finally, the old english adverbial suffix "-ly" is added to form the adverb, describing the manner of being without rest. this etymological construction directly mirrors the modern meaning: acting in a way that is characterized by an absence of calm, often manifesting as fidgety, anxious, or discontented movement or behavior.
Analysis
Structure: rest (rest) + less (without) + ly (adverb suffix)
- rest: from old english 'ræst, rest' meaning "rest, quiet, peace, a resting place". functions as the base noun/verb.
- less: from old english '-lēas' meaning "free from, without". functions as a suffix forming adjectives.
- ly: from old english '-līce' meaning "having the qualities of". functions as a suffix forming adverbs from adjectives.
Examples
he paced restlessly around the room, waiting for the phone to ring.
the children shifted restlessly in their seats during the long ceremony.
after years in the same job, she began to feel restlessly ambitious for a new challenge.