Verily is a six-letter word that means truthfully or really. The phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈvɛrəli/. The first syllable of verily is pronounced as "ver" with a short e sound followed by an r sound. The second syllable is pronounced as "i-ly" with the stress on the second syllable. The spelling of the word verily follows the common rule of English spelling - i before e, except after c or when sounded as "a" in "neighbor" or "weigh" - with an exception for certain words like verily.
Verily is an adverb that originates from Middle English and Old English. It is used to emphasize the truthfulness or certainty of a statement. It is synonymous with the terms truly, certainly, or indeed.
When used in a sentence, verily seeks to accentuate the speaker's conviction or assure the listener of the validity of what is being stated. It implies that the information being conveyed is factual and beyond doubt. It can also convey a sense of solemnity or seriousness.
Verily is often employed in literary or religious contexts, particularly biblical texts. In these instances, it is utilized to underscore the importance or significance of a moral or religious truth. It acts as a linguistic device to emphasize the divine authority or absolute truth of a statement or proclamation.
The use of verily has decreased in modern usage, and it is commonly found in formal or archaic language. However, it still holds a place in contemporary literature, speeches, or poetry, where it is employed to evoke a sense of dramatic intensity, conviction, or authority.
In summary, verily is an adverb used to emphasize the truthfulness, certainty, or significance of a statement. It carries a weight of conviction and can convey a sense of solemnity or importance. Although found less frequently in everyday language, it continues to be used in formal or poetic contexts to evoke a sense of dramatic intensity or authority.
• See under very.
• In truth; really; certainly.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "verily" originated from Middle English, deriving from the Old English word "fæstlīce". This Old English word combines "fæste", meaning "truth, faith", and "-līce", an adverbial suffix meaning "like" or "to the same extent". Over time, "fæstlīce" evolved into "verily", which has been in use since the 13th century.