deftly

[ deft-lee ]

adverb

1. in a dexterous or nimble manner; skillfully:

   The nightjar, a nocturnal bird, is an aerial hunter capable of deftly snatching moths from the air in mid flight.

   With clear, concise prose, the author navigates deftly through a complex narrative of diplomacy, war, and politics.

Word History and Origins

Origin of deftly¹

deft ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

He made his name with music videos and commercials, including a revered Nike spot, “Freestyle,” that deftly blends the rhythms of basketball and hip-hop.

From Los Angeles Times

More recently, “Legendborn” by Tracy Deonn grapples with hereditary privilege and racism but also plays with the lore of King Arthur deftly and delightfully.

From Los Angeles Times

For “Drop,” a film that deftly balances modern-day tech with the thriller subgenre’s classic twists, establishing Violet’s ingenuity in a sticky situation is integral to ensure every viewer has a great time.

From Salon

It helped foster a growing sense that everything about adult life was a lie, a theme that Nadel deftly weaves through the book.

From Los Angeles Times

In its finest moments, "John & Paul" deftly captures the sublimity and heartbreak of The Beatles’ story.

From Salon

Related Words

• ably
• adroitly
• artfully
• carefully
• cleverly
• coolly
• deliberately
• intelligently
• judiciously
• keenly
• knowingly
• skillfully
• slyly
• smartly