I. ˈbərlē, ˈbə̄l-, ˈbəil-, -li adjective
( usually -er/-est )
Etymology: Middle English burly, borlich; probably akin to Old English borlīce extremely, excellently, Old High German burlīh lofty; derivative from the root of Old English beran to carry — more at bear
1. : strongly built : stout , sturdy
burly 205-pound … blocking quarterback — Eddie Beachler
his burly ship slashed through 4-foot-thick ice — R.E.Byrd
2. : heartily frank or direct especially in manner : rough-and-ready , bluff , forthright
an evocative story less burly than the real thing but entertaining — E.A.Weeks
II. noun
( -es )
slang : one of burly frame ; specifically : tramp