Definition

In a manner that is very successful or easy; smoothly and without problems.

Example

The project is progressing swimmingly, and we expect to finish ahead of schedule.

Conversation

How did your exam go yesterday?

It went swimmingly, actually!

That's awesome to hear!

Yeah, I felt really prepared this time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Swimmingly → It is formed from "swim" (from Old English *swimman*, meaning to move through water) and the adverbial suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "swimmingly" means in a manner that is smooth and effortless, like swimming through water.

Memory Tip

Think of moving smoothly through water ('swim') and doing it 'in a manner' ('-ly') that feels effortless. This helps you remember that 'swimmingly' means something is going very smoothly.

Visually Confused Words