nearly Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. adverb (of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but
   about; nigh; almost; most; near; well-nigh; virtually.
   
   • the job is (just) about done
   • the baby was almost asleep when the alarm sounded
   • we're almost finished
   • the car all but ran her down
   • he nearly fainted
   • talked for nigh onto 2 hours
   • the recording is well-nigh perfect
   • virtually all the parties signed the contract
   • I was near exhausted by the run
   • most everyone agrees
2. adverb in a close manner
   intimately; closely.
   
   • the two phenomena are intimately connected
   • the person most nearly concerned

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