firmly

American  

[furm-lee] / ˈfɜrm li /

adverb

1. in a manner or position that is secure and solid.

   Make sure the grab bar is installed properly and remains firmly attached to the wall.

   The well-being of humankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established.

2. in a calm, assertive, or authoritative voice or manner.

   As a teacher I learned how to speak firmly and loudly without being harsh.

3. in a resolute or unwavering manner.

   When people firmly believe something essential to their worldview, they construct supporting beliefs in order to avoid having that worldview collapse.

4. in a fixed way; steadily.

   To keep your eyes firmly focused on the road, make sure you have a pair of good sunglasses handy in case the sun becomes dazzling.

---

Etymology

Origin of firmly

firm ¹ ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Berisha is himself suspected of having handed lucrative public contracts to his inner circle, which he firmly denies.

From Barron's

He stomped his feet firmly on the ground.

From Literature

However, she firmly maintains that she is not a representative voice for the community.

From Los Angeles Times

"We remain firmly committed to negotiating in good faith to reduce disruption for families and to ensure all children in our town can enjoy a good education and success in life," they said.

From BBC

But it got to the stage where the German went into every game firmly believing he would find the back of the net.

From BBC

Related Words

• adamantly
• decisively
• doggedly
• persistently
• resolutely
• staunchly
• steadfastly
• strictly
• stubbornly
• tenaciously