lowly

[loh-lee]

adjective

lowlier, lowliest 

1. humble in station, condition, or nature.

   a lowly cottage.

2. low in growth or position.

3. humble in attitude, behavior, or spirit; meek.

   Synonyms: unpretentious, simple, modest

adverb

1. in a low position, manner, or degree.

   a lowly placed shelf.

2. in a lowly manner; humbly.

3. in a quiet voice; softly.

   to converse lowly.

lowly

/ ˈləʊlɪ /

adjective

1. humble or low in position, rank, status, etc

2. full of humility; meek

3. simple, unpretentious, or plain

adverb

1. in a low or lowly manner

Other Word Forms

• lowlily adverb
• lowliness noun
• unlowly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lowly¹

A Middle English word dating back to 1300–50; low ¹, -ly

Example Sentences

The main focus of the grand prix will be on what the McLarens can do from their lowly starting positions.

From BBC

The Dodgers sweep the lowly Colorado Rockies to stretch their National League West lead to three games.

From Los Angeles Times

Solo Leveling - which charts a lowly monster hunter's rise to power - is a classic tale of the triumph of an underdog.

From BBC

Yet Dodgers manager Dave Roberts insisted there would be no overlooking the lowly Rockies and no looking ahead to the Padres’ series.

From Los Angeles Times

Alice says she felt let down by the company and was given the impression that, in a "lowly role as a production worker", she should just "be grateful and get on with it".

From BBC

Related Words

• humble