/near"lee/ , adv.
1. all but; almost: nearly dead with cold.
2. with close approximation: a nearly perfect likeness.
3. with close agreement or resemblance: a plan nearly like our own.
4. with close kinship, interest, or connection; intimately: nearly associated in business; two women nearly related.
[ 1530-40; NEAR + -LY ]
Syn. 1. See almost. 4. closely.