nearly

adverb

1. 1

   In close approximation; almost, virtually.

   He left a nearly full beer on the bar.

   I nearly didn't go to work yesterday.

   He was (so/very) nearly over the worst part of his college degree.

   She was like a Beardsley Salome, he had said. And indeed she had the narrow eyes and the high cheekbone of that creature, and as nearly the sinuosity as is compatible with human symmetry.

2. 2

   archaicWith great scrutiny; carefully.

   And whosoever hath traced mee and nearely [translating de pres] looked into my humours, Ile loose a good wager if hee confesse not that there is no rule in their schoole, could, a midde such crooked pathes and divers windings, square and report this naturall motion, and maintaine an apparance of liberty and licence so equall and inflexible […].

3. 3

   With close relation; intimately.

   Let that which he learns next be nearly conjoined with what he knows already.

   She could have joined most comfortably in all their supposings, and suspicions, and doubts, and prognostications, but the honour of the family was too nearly concerned to allow free reins to her tongue.

   [H]e was also accounted a man of wealth, and was nearly related to a high chief.

4. 4

   Closely, in close proximity.

   I doubt some danger do's approach you neerely.

5. 5

   Stingily.

Forms

comparative

nearlier, more nearly

superlative

nearliest, most nearly