Pronunciation: [mˈɪdə͡lɪŋlɪ] (IPA) 
The word "middlingly" is spelled /ˈmɪd.lɪŋ.li/. The first syllable "mid" is pronounced with the short "i" sound, and the second syllable "dling" is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by a velar nasal "ng" sound. The third syllable "ly" is pronounced with a clear long "e" sound. This word means "moderately" or "fairly" and is often used to describe something as average or ordinary in quality or performance.
The term "middlingly" is an adverb that refers to an action or state done in a mediocre or average manner, lacking both excellence and deficiency. It signifies an activity or outcome that falls neither to the extreme of excellence nor to the extreme of inadequacy. The word "middlingly" is derived from the adjective "middling," which means of average quality, an intermediate position between two extremes, or modest competence.
When used in a descriptive sense, "middlingly" implies performing something in a satisfactory but unexceptional way. It suggests an outcome that is average or ordinary without demonstrating remarkable skill or accomplishment. This adverb evokes a sense of adequacy or moderate success, yet it carries an implied criticism of lacking outstanding brilliance or distinction.
The term "middlingly" can also be associated with the idea of moderation, indicating an act performed without excessive enthusiasm or mediocrity. It highlights an action taken without going to great lengths or exhibiting an exceptional degree of effort. The adverb captures a sense of averageness or mediocrity without possessing any extraordinary or remarkable attributes.
In summary, "middlingly" describes an action or state that is performed or achieved in a mediocre or ordinary manner, lacking both excellence and inadequacy. It embodies a sense of average quality, adequacy, and moderation, without displaying any outstanding or exceptional characteristics.
The word "middlingly" is derived from the base word "middling", which has its roots in the Old English language. "Middling" was formed by combining the word "mid", meaning "middle" or "between", with the suffix "-ling", indicating "belonging to" or "resembling". Over time, "middling" came to describe something of average or moderate quality or value. The adverb form "middlingly" then evolved from this adjective, adding the suffix "-ly" to denote manner or degree. So, "middlingly" refers to doing something in a moderately or averagely manner.
