In a cheerful, happy, and lighthearted way; with joy and laughter.
From the Middle English 'merily', derived from Old English 'myrige' meaning 'pleasant' or 'agreeable'. The suffix '-ly' transforms the adjective 'merry' into an adverb. The root possibly connects to Germanic words meaning 'brief' or 'short-lasting', perhaps referring to fleeting happiness.
The famous song 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat' ends with 'life is but a dream'—and you're supposed to sing the 'merrily' part faster and more joyfully each time! This shows how the sound of a word can help express its meaning.
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