roundly

American  

[round-lee] / ˈraʊnd li /

adverb

1. in a round manner.

2. vigorously or briskly.

3. outspokenly, severely, or unsparingly.

4. completely or fully.

5. in round numbers or in a vague or general way.

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roundly British  

/ ˈraʊndlɪ /

adverb

1. frankly, bluntly, or thoroughly

   to be roundly criticized

2. in a round manner or so as to be round

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Etymology

Origin of roundly

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; round ¹, -ly

Example Sentences

Thursday's update has been roundly welcomed by head teachers' unions.

From BBC

Washington residents have roundly criticized the official response, as numerous streets remained unplowed, snowbanks blocked road crossings and schools stayed shut for a full three days after the storm had passed.

From Barron's

I fanned my face a little faster and resisted the urge to smack these blithering cretins roundly on their hot heads.

From Literature

That recommendation was roundly criticised by paediatricians with the American Academy of Pediatrics describing it as "a dangerous move that will harm children".

From BBC

By now Lord Fredrick had grudgingly agreed to meet the soothsayer, for he had been roundly scolded by his wife.

From Literature

Related Words

• soundly