Dolently

/ˈdoʊləntli/ adverb

Definition

In a dolent manner; sorrowfully, mournfully, or with an expression of grief (archaic or rare).

Etymology

From dolent (adjective) + -ly (adverbial suffix). This is a rare formation that appears in historical texts but is largely superseded by the more common 'dolefully.'

Kelly Says

This is a word where English speakers had to choose between two possible forms—'dolefully' (from doleful + -ly) and 'dolently' (from dolent + -ly)—and we collectively decided to stick with 'dolefully,' leaving 'dolently' as a linguistic footnote.

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