-ly

having the character or appearance of

Forms

From Old English -lic, related to lic, “body or form.”

This describing ending is distinct from the manner ending in quickly, although their histories are related.

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adjective

Kind, welcoming, or behaving like a friend.

Etymology

The adjective ending expresses the character of its base noun. Friendly therefore means behaving as a friend would, with goodwill and welcome.