faithfully

Faithfully is an English adverb derived from the adjective faithful. It describes actions performed with fidelity, loyalty, or accuracy. When something is done faithfully, it is done in a way that is trustworthy, true to the person or standard involved, and free from intentional error.

In personal contexts, faithfully can describe loyalty in relationships or dedication to duties. For example, someone might remain faithful to a partner, or a caregiver may attend to someone faithfully. In professional or descriptive contexts, it can mean that a report, reproduction, or portrayal is accurate and complete, without misrepresentation.

In written communication, faithful is used in phrases such as "conducted the inquiry faithfully" or "reporting the event faithfully." In British English letter writing, “Yours faithfully” is a conventional closing when the recipient is not personally known; “Yours sincerely” is used when the recipient is known. American usage tends to favor “Sincerely” rather than “Faithfully.”

Etymology traces faithfully to the adjective faithful, which originates from older forms in English and Latin roots linked to faith and trust, through Middle English. As a common adverb, its precise meaning depends on context, but it consistently conveys adherence, truth, or dependability.