adverb
- in a holy or sacred manner; with reverence or piety
- in a manner that appears or claims to be virtuous or morally upright
Usage: often used with a tone of irony or criticism
Examples
- The priest spoke holily about the sacred texts during the service.
- She holily proclaimed her commitment to helping the poor.
- The monks chanted holily in the cathedral.
- He holily declared his innocence, though few believed him.
- The congregation sang holily together during the hymn.
- She approached the altar holily, with deep reverence.