ably

¹

[ ey-blee ]

adverb

1. in an able manner; with skill or ability; competently.

-ably

²

1. a suffix combining -able and -ly that forms adverbs corresponding to adjectives ending in -able: commendably; dependably; tolerably .

ably

/ ˈeɪblɪ /

adverb

1. in a competent or skilful manner

Word History and Origins

Origin of ably¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, ably is from the Middle English word abelli. See able, -ly

Example Sentences

The first part of a planned two-film epic musical will delight obsessives of the Broadway show and is ably carried by co-stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.

From Los Angeles Times

He may feel the need to reintroduce Ryan Baird and Craig Casey, who were unlucky to miss out on the matchday squad, while Calvin Nash - who ably deputised for the injured Mack Hansen in the Six Nations - will be itching for another chance.

From BBC

The ‘Wicked’ star ably mimicked Celine Dion, Britney Spears and others in her ‘SNL’ hosting gig, which featured musical guest Stevie Nicks performing ‘The Lighthouse.’

From Los Angeles Times

The slashing strings of composer Volker Bertelmann’s score ably convey the stakes of the situation.

From Los Angeles Times

If Justice Clarence Thomas’ performance in Wednesday’s Glossip arguments signaled anything, as Mark Joseph Stern points out, it’s that there is no public misconduct that can’t also be ably defended as a slanderous conspiracy now.

From Slate

Related Words

• adroitly
• competently