healthily

Healthily is an adverb describing actions performed in a way that promotes health or well-being. It modifies verbs and, less commonly, adjectives, conveying that the activity supports physical or mental health. Examples include eating, exercise, hygiene, and medical practices carried out in a health-promoting manner.

In grammar, healthily is the adverbial form linked to the adjective healthy. Some style guides note that in formal writing it may be clearer to say “in a healthy way,” but healthily remains standard in everyday and many journalistic contexts. Usage can emphasize ongoing practices rather than a momentary state of health.

Etymology and related forms: Healthily is formed with the -ly suffix from the adjective healthy. Dictionary sources often trace it through healthy, with health as the related noun. The root health itself comes from Old English hælþ. Related terms include healthful (nourishing or beneficial to health), healthy (in good health), and healthfulness (the quality of being conducive to health).

Notes on usage: Healthily tends to describe processes or habits rather than conditions. In some contexts, speakers prefer phrases like “in a healthy way” to avoid potential awkwardness, especially in cautious or formal writing. It is most natural when describing routines, diets, or behaviors that contribute to long-term well-being.

See also: Healthy, Healthful, Healthfulness, Diet, Exercise, Public health.