honestly Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adverb (used as intensives reflecting the speaker's attitude) it is sincerely the case that
    candidly; frankly.
    • honestly, I don't believe it
    • candidly, I think she doesn't have a conscience
    • frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn
  2. adverb in an honest manner
    aboveboard.
    • in he can't get it honestly, he is willing to steal it
    • was known for dealing aboveboard in everything

WordNet


Hon"est*ly adverb
Definitions
  1. Honorably; becomingly; decently. Obs. Chaucer.
  2. In an honest manner; as, a contract honestly made; to live honestly; to speak honestly. Shak.

Webster 1913