handsomely

Everyday

1. Generously; in large amounts, as in «paid handsomely» or «rewarded handsomely». tree →
2. Clearly and well; by a big margin, as in «won handsomely». tree →
3. In a good-looking, fine or elegant way. tree →

In the lessons

Mostly used about money and winning: «handsomely paid», «handsomely rewarded», «beat them handsomely». In stories a hero is «handsomely rewarded» by a king. Sense 3 is used for things that are finely dressed or made.

Examples

• The finder of the lost dog was handsomely rewarded. tree →
• Our team won handsomely, 6–0. tree →
• The house was handsomely decorated for Christmas. tree →
• The workers were handsomely paid for the hard job. tree →
• The king rewarded the brave knight handsomely. tree →
• Toad tipped the waiter handsomely to show off. tree →
• If you do that, we shall not only let you off, but reward you handsomely.” tree →

Note

Adverb from «handsome». Note that «handsome» is used for men's good looks, but «handsomely» usually means «generously» or «by a lot», not about looks. «Handsome reward» = a big reward.