ˈni(ə)rlē, -iəlē, -li adverb
( sometimes -er/-est )
Etymology: near (IV) + -ly
1. : at close range : with careful scrutiny
2.
a. : closely as to relationship, personal connection, or interest
nearly related
: particularly
other things that concerned me more nearly to think of — W.H.Hudson †1922
nearly acquainted
b. : closely as to similarity
nearly identical
two cities … grown to a status so nearly equal — American Guide Series: Minnesota
c. : with an approach to completeness or exactness : approximately
such words are nearly meaningless
lying nearly at right angles
d. archaic : closely as to location
some danger does approach you nearly — Shakespeare
3. : within a little : all but : almost
nearly a year later
nearly a hundred dollars
nearly missed the train