smilingly

Everyday

Smilingly means while smiling, in a smiling and friendly way. tree →

In the lessons

A story word that tells the reader the person is happy, friendly or politely pleased while speaking or acting. Sometimes a character answers «smilingly» while hiding what they really feel.

Examples

• The teacher smilingly handed out the prizes. tree →
• «Of course you may,» she said smilingly. tree →
• The Rat smilingly shook his head. tree →
• The shopkeeper smilingly waved goodbye. tree →
• He nodded smilingly at the baby. tree →
• The Cheshire Cat looked smilingly down from the tree. tree →
• ‘What will they add?’ she smilingly asked. tree →

Note

Adverb from «smiling» + «-ly». Rather bookish; in speech we say «with a smile». Spelling: smile → smiling (drop the e) → smilingly.