Lowly
ˈləʊli
Definitions
2 meaningsHaving a humble or low social standing, rank, or condition; not important or impressive.
ˈləʊli
Of low rank or status; humble.
Despite his lowly beginnings, he became a successful entrepreneur.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're a helper at a big event, like a festival. You're doing important jobs, but maybe you're not the star. Being 'lowly' means you have a less important role, but your work still matters! For instance, 'The lowly volunteer worked tirelessly to clean up the park.'
👶 For kids: Being lowly means you're not a big shot, like a king or queen. You're just a regular person, like the kid who cleans up the toys.
More Examples
The company started with a lowly office in a small town, but grew to become a global corporation.
The detective investigated the crime, starting with the lowly individuals who were present.
How It's Used
"The lowly servant performed his duties without complaint."
"She came from a lowly background, but her ambition knew no bounds."
In a humble or lowly manner; with a lack of pride or arrogance.
ˈləʊli
In a humble or low manner.
The knight bowed lowly before the king, pledging his service.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're apologizing to someone. If you're being 'lowly' it means you're really, really sorry and showing them respect. Think about 'She bowed lowly to apologize for her mistake.'
👶 For kids: It's like being super polite and showing respect when you say sorry or do something nice.
More Examples
The prisoner knelt lowly to beg for mercy.
She spoke lowly, not wanting to be overheard.
How It's Used
"He bowed lowly before the king, showing his respect."
Idioms & expressions
lowly born
Born into a family of low social standing or rank.
"Despite being lowly born, she rose to a position of great power."
From Middle English *lowly*, equivalent to *low* + *-ly* (adverbial suffix). Related to Old English *lāg*, meaning 'low, humble'.
Used in literature and historical texts to describe characters of humble origins or actions demonstrating humility.
Memory tip
Think of a low-lying place, like the ground—it’s a lowly position.
Word Origin
"lāg (low)"