Definition

Only just; by a small amount; hardly at all.

Example

She barely passed the exam, scoring just enough to pass.

Conversation

Did you see the game last night?

I barely caught the last few minutes before bed.

It was so exciting, I can’t believe you missed it!

I know, right? I barely managed to stay awake.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Barely → The word originates from the Old English 'bær' (meaning bare or naked) combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly' (meaning in a manner of). Thus, 'barely' means in a manner that is just bare or hardly at all.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bare' meaning without covering, and the '-ly' shows how something is done. So, 'barely' means something is done in a way that is just enough, or hardly at all.

Visually Confused Words