Definition of the word highly

The word "highly" has its roots in Old English. It is derived from the word "egal", which means "up" or "high", and the suffix "-ly", which forms an adverb. In Old English, "highly" was used to describe something that was positioned high up or elevated. Over time, the meaning of "highly" expanded to include meanings such as "to a great extent" or "in a superior manner". It is often used to intensify an adjective, as in "highly skilled" or "highly effective". Today, "highly" is commonly used in everyday language and is an essential part of many idiomatic expressions, such as "highly unlikely" or "highly unlikely".