handsomely

Handsomely is an English adverb derived from the adjective handsome. It has two overlapping senses: (1) in a visually attractive or stylish manner; (2) in a substantial or generous amount or degree. In both uses, the term typically conveys a positive valuation and is more common in formal or literary contexts than in everyday speech.

Etymology and development: The adjective handsome originally carried senses related to usefulness or manageability in Middle English, and over time it broadened to mean attractive or good-looking. The adverb handsomely formed from this adjective inherits both the appearance-related sense and the sense of substantiality or generosity. The idea of doing something in a “handsome” way can thus imply grace, generosity, or conspicuous quality.

Usage notes: Handsomely can describe actions, payments, or appearances. Common collocations include handsomely paying, handsomely rewarded, and handsomely dressed. Example sentences: He paid the bill handsomely. She dressed handsomely for the gala. The project was handsomely funded. In modern everyday speech, the adverb often signals a generous or substantial degree of something, and may carry a slightly formal or literary tone.

See also: handsome; -ly adverbs formed from adjectives; references to generosity and style in descriptive language.